As Nigeria prepares for the 2027 general elections, the Nigerian Civil Society Situation Room has called on the National Assembly to urgently complete and pass all pending electoral reform bills to strengthen public trust in the democratic process.
The appeal was made during a press conference in Abuja on Monday by Celestine Odo, Head of Programmes at ActionAid Nigeria, speaking on behalf of the coalition.
Odo warned that Nigeria’s democracy is at a critical crossroads, under threat from a growing governance deficit and widespread public disillusionment.
“The Situation Room calls on the National Assembly to finalise and pass into law pending reforms that will restore confidence in our elections and, ultimately, our democracy,” Odo stated.
In addition to legislative reforms, the group also challenged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure free, fair, and credible elections in 2027, particularly in upcoming off-cycle gubernatorial polls in Anambra, Ekiti and Osun states.
The Situation Room expressed concern over systemic corruption and urged the federal government to confront the issue head-on.
“While the endurance of civil rule is commendable, systemic corruption, cultural fragmentation, and governance failures continue to undermine democratic consolidation,” Odo added.
He noted that the success of the current administration’s legacy would depend on its ability to reduce economic inequality, restore electoral integrity, and promote inclusive governance.
The group also criticized the Senate’s suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, describing it as a threat to the rule of law.
Akpoti-Uduaghan, a first-time senator from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), was suspended on March 6, 2025, and barred from all parliamentary activities for six months.
Although the matter was taken to court, the Federal High Court in Abuja did not overturn the Senate’s decision, citing the absence of a binding order to reverse it.
Despite informing the Senate Clerk’s office of her intention to resume duties on September 4, the senator has yet to be allowed back.
The Situation Room condemned the Senate’s continued denial of her return, warning it undermines constitutional democracy and sets a dangerous precedent.
