Abuja: An NGO, The West Africa Democracy Network (WADEMOS), has called for collective efforts by all stakeholders to strengthen Nigerian democracy, warning that any failure in the democratic process would pose severe challenges to the stability and democratic future of the African continent.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Regional Advocacy Officer for WADEMOS, Mr. Austine Aigbe, emphasized the collective responsibility of strengthening Nigeria’s democratic institutions during a roundtable on democracy organized by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), NAN Chapel. Aigbe highlighted that active citizen participation is crucial, rather than passive observation.
Aigbe stated, “If Nigeria does not get her democracy right, it will be a major challenge to the African continent. It is important that Nigeria’s democracy must be strengthened and we all have a responsibility.” He also pointed out that civil society extends beyond traditional non-governmental organizations to include trade unions, religious institutions, and everyday citizens, stressing the role of civil society members in the democratic process.
Aigbe urged Nigerians to actively counter electoral disinformation aimed at suppressing voter turnout in the 2027 general elections, warning that voter apathy is one of the easiest ways to manipulate votes. He encouraged voters to turn out in large numbers to make it difficult for any attempts to undermine the electoral process.
Furthermore, Aigbe called on the media and election observers to adopt proactive measures in safeguarding election results at the grassroots level. He advocated for media platforms to secure digital copies of result sheets directly from polling units to ensure transparency and suggested the establishment of citizen-led result verification portals as a supportive measure for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
In addition, a development lawyer and civil rights advocate, Mr. Frank Tietie, expressed gratitude to NAN for its historical role in promoting human rights and providing a platform for activists. Tietie emphasized the importance of professional, fair, and unbiased journalism in upholding truth, justice, and state preservation.
Tietie urged journalists and civil society actors to prioritize national stability above partisan interests and cautioned against actions that could weaken legitimate governments. He reiterated the responsibility of preserving the Nigerian state and pledged his law firm’s continued legal support to journalists and media practitioners, highlighting the press’s role in safeguarding democratic integrity in Nigeria.