Civil Society Coalition Presses National Assembly on Electoral Reforms Ahead of 2027 Polls

The Nigerian Civil Situation Room has called on the National Assembly to expedite the passage of pending electoral reforms into law before the 2027 general elections. The coalition of over 70 civil society organisations emphasised that timely reforms would be crucial in restoring public trust in Nigeria’s electoral system, which has faced credibility challenges in recent years.

Speaking on behalf of the group at a press conference in Abuja on Monday, Head of Programmes at ActionAid Nigeria, Celestine Odo, said the reforms must be prioritised if the country is to safeguard its democracy.

“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 declared.

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Electoral Reforms as Cornerstone of Democracy

The coalition noted that Nigeria’s electoral process has been undermined by systemic irregularities, poor logistics, voter suppression, and technological failures that weakened citizens’ faith in democracy. Odo stressed that reforming the Electoral Act and strengthening the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) would help deliver free, fair, and credible elections.

He added that with off-cycle governorship elections scheduled in Anambra, Ekiti, and Osun states before 2027, INEC must seize the opportunity to show Nigerians and the international community that it can conduct polls that meet global standards.

“With off-cycle governorship elections holding in Anambra, Ekiti and Osun states before the next general elections, INEC will need to conduct free, fair and credible elections within internationally accepted standards,” Odo said.

According to him, Nigerians deserve an electoral body that is independent, transparent, and immune to political manipulation. He noted that the credibility of the 2027 elections will depend largely on reforms introduced within the next two years.

Democracy at a Crossroads

The Situation Room also raised concerns about systemic corruption, cultural fragmentation, and governance deficits, which it described as major threats to democratic consolidation in Nigeria.

“Nigerian democracy stands at a crossroad. While the endurance of civil rule is commendable, systemic corruption, cultural fragmentation and governance deficit continue to threaten democratic consolidation,” Odo said.

He added that the current administration’s legacy would be defined by its ability to reduce economic inequality, restore electoral integrity, and foster inclusive governance. The coalition urged both the executive and legislative arms to treat electoral reforms as a national emergency rather than a political bargaining chip.

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Beyond electoral matters, the coalition also weighed in on the ongoing controversy surrounding the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central Senatorial District.

Akpoti-Uduaghan, a first-time lawmaker on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), was suspended by the Senate on March 6, 2025, for alleged misconduct. Despite serving nearly six months of the suspension, her attempt to resume duties on September 4 was blocked by Senate leadership, which argued that the matter was still before the Court of Appeal.

The Situation Room strongly condemned the Senate’s decision, describing it as a “serious threat to the rule of law.”

“The refusal to allow Senator Natasha to resume despite completing her suspension period undermines democratic principles and sets a dangerous precedent,” the group warned.

It insisted that the legislature must not be seen as trampling on judicial processes or infringing on the rights of elected representatives.

Broader Implications for Democratic Stability

Analysts have long argued that Nigeria’s democratic institutions are weakened when political expediency overrides constitutional principles. The coalition warned that such actions, combined with delayed electoral reforms, could push Nigeria further toward democratic instability.

The Situation Room urged the judiciary to expedite rulings on electoral and constitutional disputes, stressing that prolonged legal battles create uncertainty and erode citizens’ trust in democratic institutions.

Call for Inclusive Governance

In addition to pressing for reforms, the coalition called on political leaders to prioritise inclusive governance that reflects Nigeria’s diversity. According to Odo, equitable representation across ethnic, religious, and gender lines will help reduce tensions and ensure that democracy delivers tangible benefits to citizens.

The group also encouraged young people and women to engage more actively in politics ahead of 2027, noting that their participation is vital to deepening democratic culture.

Next Steps

The Nigerian Civil Situation Room pledged to continue engaging stakeholders, monitoring electoral processes, and pushing for policy changes that enhance democratic governance. It urged civil society, media, and international partners to hold both the National Assembly and INEC accountable to ensure that the 2027 elections mark a positive turning point in Nigeria’s democratic journey.

“In the end, democracy is only as strong as the institutions that protect it. Nigeria cannot afford to approach 2027 with a flawed framework. The time for action is now,” Odo concluded.

The coalition’s call underscores mounting pressure on lawmakers to treat electoral reforms as urgent business rather than deferring them until the election cycle draws nearer. Whether the National Assembly will respond swiftly remains to be seen, but the message from civil society is clear: Nigeria’s democracy hangs in the balance.