Rafsanjani, Board Chairman , CAPPA
Ahead of the 2027 general elections, Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA) has urged all tiers of government, electoral authorities, and political actors to safeguard Nigeria’s democracy, guarantee credible polls, and address worsening socio-economic and security crises.
In a statement issued in Abuja after a board meeting over the weekend, the organisation warned that Nigeria’s democratic future hinges not only on periodic elections but on the integrity of the process, institutional transparency, and citizens’ right to participate without fear or violence.
The CAPPA board said the 2027 elections must be free, fair, inclusive, and held without violence, voter suppression, or politically motivated intimidation.
“Nigeria cannot afford another electoral cycle marred by irregularities, hate speech, and loss of public trust,” the statement read. “Credibility will depend on the resolve of government, institutions, and political actors to uphold the rule of law.”
It urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies to begin early preparations to guarantee transparency and ensure every vote counts. It also called on the judiciary to resist attempts to subvert the will of the people.
CAPPA further warned against the influence of money in politics, noting that vote-buying and the capture of democratic institutions by powerful interests weaken governance. It called on political parties to uphold internal democracy, saying its absence fuels conflict and destabilises the electoral environment.
“As Nigeria prepares for its next general elections, this is a critical moment to reset national priorities,” CAPPA added. “Government and all stakeholders must show genuine commitment to democratic principles, economic justice, and the protection of human life. Anything less risks deepening public disillusionment.”
The board also raised concern over insecurity nationwide, noting that despite high budgetary allocations to the sector, Nigerians still face daily threats to their lives and livelihoods.
“It is deeply troubling that senseless killings, kidnappings, and violent attacks persist across the country despite enormous public resources committed annually to security,” CAPPA said. “Even more alarming is that ransom payments have become routine, with Nigerians forced to negotiate with violent actors in the absence of effective state protection.”
The group called for a comprehensive review of Nigeria’s security architecture and a people-centred approach built on intelligence gathering, community engagement, and justice for victims.
On the economy, CAPPA lamented that recent measures, including fuel subsidy removal and increased allocations to subnational governments, have yet to bring relief to ordinary Nigerians. Many households still face rising inflation, food insecurity, unemployment, and declining purchasing power.
“While fiscal reforms are often necessary, they must not come at the expense of the most vulnerable,” it stated. “Gains from subsidy removal and increased revenues must be transparently managed and equitably distributed to create jobs and reduce poverty.”
The board urged federal and state authorities to show greater accountability in the use of public funds, invest in healthcare, education, and water systems, and implement policies that shield citizens from the harsh impacts of reforms.
The board reaffirmed CAPPA’s commitment to working with civil society, communities, and the media to promote accountability and public participation in governance.
