Group urges reforms on security, economy, and electoral integrity to restore public trust

By ifeoma Onyekachi

The Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA) has cautioned that Nigeria cannot afford another election cycle plagued by irregularities, hate speech, and declining public confidence, as the country prepares for the 2027 general elections.

In a joint statement issued by its Board Chairman, Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, and Executive Director, Akinbode Oluwafemi, the organisation called on government at all levels, electoral authorities, and political actors to strengthen democratic institutions and prioritise reforms that guarantee credible polls.

CAPPA stressed that the legitimacy of the 2027 elections would depend on adherence to the rule of law and a collective commitment to transparency, inclusiveness, and non-violence.

“The country cannot afford another electoral cycle marred by irregularities, hate speech, and loss of public trust,” the group said, adding that only credible elections can restore citizens’ confidence in democratic governance.

The organisation urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies to commence early preparations aimed at safeguarding vote integrity and ensuring transparency throughout the electoral process. It also called on the judiciary to uphold the sanctity of the ballot and resist actions capable of undermining the will of the electorate.

CAPPA further raised concerns over the persistence of vote-buying and weak internal democracy within political parties, warning that such practices threaten the credibility of elections.

On security, the group decried the continued wave of killings, kidnappings, and violent attacks across the country despite significant budgetary allocations to the sector. It described as alarming the growing trend of ransom payments by citizens in the absence of effective state protection.

The organisation therefore called for a comprehensive overhaul of Nigeria’s security architecture, with emphasis on intelligence gathering, community-based approaches, and justice for victims.

Addressing the economy, CAPPA criticised recent fiscal reforms, including fuel subsidy removal, noting that they have yet to translate into relief for citizens grappling with inflation, unemployment, and rising food costs.

While acknowledging the necessity of economic reforms, the group insisted that such policies must prioritise the welfare of vulnerable populations and not exacerbate hardship.

“As Nigeria prepares for its next general elections, this is a critical moment to reset national priorities,” the statement added, warning that failure to address governance, security, and economic challenges could deepen public disillusionment.

CAPPA reaffirmed its commitment to working with civil society organisations, communities, and the media to promote accountability and strengthen democratic processes.