CAPPA Urges Government to Strengthen Democratic Institutions, Tackle Insecurity, Ensure Economic Justice

Auwal Musa Rafsanjani and Akinbode Oluwafemi

Ahead of the 2027 general elections, Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA) has called on all tiers of government, electoral authorities, and political actors to take concrete steps to safeguard Nigeria’s democracy, ensure credible elections, and address the worsening socio-economic and security challenges facing citizens.

In a statement issued over the weekend in Abuja after a meeting of its board, the organisation warned that Nigeria’s democratic future depends not only on periodic elections, but also on the integrity of the processes leading up to them, the transparency of institutions, and the protection of citizens’ rights to participate freely without fear or violence.

The statement, signed by CAPPA Board Chairman, Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, and Executive Director, Akinbode Oluwafemi, stressed that for the 2027 elections to command legitimacy, they must be free, fair, inclusive, and conducted in an atmosphere devoid of violence, voter suppression, and politically motivated intimidation.

“Nigeria cannot afford another electoral cycle marred by irregularities, hate speech, and loss of public trust,” the organisation said. “The credibility of the elections will depend on the resolve of governments at all levels, institutions, and political actors to uphold the rule of law.”

The CAPPA board urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies to begin early preparations to guarantee transparency and ensure that every vote counts. It also challenged the judiciary to stand firm against any attempts to subvert the will of the people.

The organisation emphasised the need to curb the influence of money in politics, warning that vote-buying and the capture of democratic institutions by powerful interests undermine public trust and weaken governance outcomes. 

It called on political parties to uphold internal democracy, noting that the absence of due process within party structures fuels conflict and destabilises the broader electoral environment.

“As Nigeria prepares for its next general elections, this is a critical moment to reset national priorities,” CAPPA said. “The 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 expressed concern over the deteriorating security situation across the country, noting that despite consistently high budgetary allocations to the sector, many Nigerians continue to face daily threats to their lives and livelihoods.

“It is deeply troubling that killings, kidnappings, and violent attacks persist across various parts of the country despite enormous public resources committed annually to security,” the organisation said. 

“Even more alarming is that ransom payments have become routine, with citizens forced to negotiate with violent actors in the absence of effective state protection.”

CAPPA called for a comprehensive review of Nigeria’s security architecture and a people-centred approach focused on intelligence gathering, community engagement, and justice for victims.

On the economy, the board lamented that recent policy measures, including the removal of fuel subsidy and increased allocations to subnational governments, have yet to translate into meaningful relief for ordinary Nigerians. 

It noted that many households continue to grapple with 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 said. “The expected gains from subsidy removal and increased revenues must be transparently managed and equitably distributed to create jobs and reduce poverty.”

The CAPPA board urged the federal and state governments to demonstrate greater accountability in the use of public funds, invest in critical social infrastructure such as healthcare, education, and water systems, and implement policies that protect citizens from the harsh impacts of economic reforms.

The organisation reaffirmed its commitment to working with civil society, communities, and the media to promote accountability and public participation in governance.