The Social Democratic Party, Obidient Movement, and several civil society organisations have demanded major reforms to Nigeria’s electoral system ahead of the 2027 general elections, saying citizens must be allowed to freely choose their leaders through a transparent and credible process.
The call was made during a Democracy Day dialogue organised by the Movement for Credible Elections in partnership with the June 12 Democracy Movement of Nigeria in Lagos. Participants at the event adopted a communiqué titled Agenda for a Valuable Nigeria, which outlined a number of recommendations aimed at strengthening democracy and governance.
Among those who endorsed the document were Human Rights Africa founder, Dr. Tunji Abayomi, Obidient Movement National Coordinator, Dr. Tanko Yunusa, and SDP National Chairman, Prof. Sadiq Umar Gombe.
The coalition expressed concern over what it described as declining public confidence in Nigeria’s electoral system. The group argued that reforms to the country’s electoral framework should be completed before the 2027 elections to ensure that election outcomes genuinely reflect the wishes of voters.
Speaking on the resolutions, Abayomi said the true measure of democracy is not which party wins an election but whether citizens are given a fair opportunity to determine who governs them. He maintained that protecting the right to vote remains one of the most important responsibilities of any democratic government.
The coalition also raised concerns about the allocation of public resources, arguing that excessive funds are being spent on running government while key sectors such as healthcare, education, water supply, and food production receive less attention. According to the stakeholders, government spending should be more focused on improving the living conditions of ordinary Nigerians.
On security, the group warned that terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and other violent crimes continue to threaten national stability. It urged the Federal Government to adopt modern security methods, including the use of technology, intelligence gathering systems, surveillance equipment, and drones, rather than relying mainly on traditional military operations.
Abayomi noted that advances in technology have changed how security challenges are tackled globally and argued that Nigeria must invest more in modern tools to protect lives and property.
The participants also expressed worries over food insecurity and rising poverty levels across the country. They said government must move beyond promises and take practical steps to boost agricultural production, support farmers, and increase food availability. According to the coalition, growing hunger could become a larger national crisis if urgent measures are not taken.
Another major issue discussed at the forum was constitutional reform. The stakeholders argued that the 1999 Constitution lacks broad public ownership because it originated during military rule. They called for a process that would allow Nigerians to draft and adopt a constitution through democratic participation.
The coalition further urged the National Assembly to begin the legislative process that would make it possible for citizens to produce a new constitution reflecting the aspirations of the people.
As part of its next steps, the forum announced plans to establish a policy and research platform involving pro-democracy advocates and other stakeholders. The initiative is expected to promote electoral reforms, constitutional changes, and governance improvements ahead of future elections.
The participants also appealed to Nigerians across political, ethnic, and religious backgrounds to work together in addressing the country’s challenges and rebuilding public confidence in democratic institutions.
Abayomi said the gathering was not driven by partisan interests but by a shared commitment to Nigeria’s progress and development. He added that the wellbeing of the country affects every citizen and called for collective efforts to build a more stable, secure, and democratic nation.