The Human Rights and Civic Education Resource Center states that Nigeria's democracy has been overshadowed by impunity and neglect, pointing to restrictions on opposition parties, a systemic suppression of dissent, and the co-opting of key institutions designed to maintain justice.
The head of CHRICED, Ibrahim Zikrullahi, delivered the remark during a State of the Nation speech in Abuja on Thursday.
Nigeria marked its 65th Anniversary of Independence from British colonization on Wednesday, October 1st, 2025. In a speech to the country, President Bola Tinubu stated that although Nigeria's independence had faced various social, economic, and political difficulties, the nation had not "deviated too much" from the aspirations of the original leaders.
Nevertheless, Zikirullahi mentioned that although the government promoted stories of reform, stability, and advancement, the actual experience of Nigerians was one of "repression, poverty, and anxiety."
He stated that the vision of democracy was being "shadowed by a growing wave of impunity and neglect," noting that just two years into the Tinubu administration, governance had been set aside in favor of political campaigning, with the Independent National Electoral Commission failing to uphold electoral laws.
The vision of democracy, wealth, and fairness is being overshadowed by an increasing wave of lawlessness and disregard. Organizations designed to safeguard and assist the public have remained quiet, frozen by cooperation, or taken over by authority. This quietude is not tranquility. It is desertion. It is treachery. The era of passive optimism has ended. The moment for brave, united efforts has arrived.
Just two years into President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's leadership, Nigeria's democratic hopes are being overshadowed by political self-interest. Administration has taken a backseat to early campaigning, as officials focus more on rally events than addressing pressing issues. This clear breach of the Electoral Act is happening without consequence, as INEC—the organization legally responsible for upholding election rules—remains notably quiet.
“Nigerians are raising concerns about the worsening situation in the judiciary—a department that was once seen as the final resort for ordinary citizens. Now, that hope is gradually disappearing. There are numerous accounts of corruption, bribes, and systemic problems that have damaged public trust. The fairness of the judiciary is becoming more at risk due to financial reliance and political influence, causing courts to become tools of power instead of foundations of justice,” Zikrullahi said.
The Executive Director also claimed that democratic institutions were being used as tools for political gain, referencing the case of Kogi Central Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, whom he stated represented the suppression of women and underrepresented communities. He emphasized that this incident was not an isolated event, but a significant warning.
He also emphasized the suppression of the offices of the Peoples Democratic Party and the African Democratic Democratic Congress, along with the prohibition imposed by the governments of Edo and Benue States on the former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, describing these actions as "intimidation strategies" aimed at Nigeria's multi-party democracy.
The hardship faced by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who has been kept out of legislative activities despite legitimate court rulings, highlights the ongoing suppression of differing opinions—especially for women and underrepresented communities. Her situation is not an exception; it serves as a cautionary tale.
"Security agencies have recently imposed restrictions on the PDP and ADC secretariats, hindering their ability to conduct legal meetings. At the same time, APC governors in Edo and Benue have enacted unconstitutional restrictions against Peter Obi, a well-known opposition leader. These measures are not part of good governance—they are methods of intimidation that endanger Nigeria's multi-party democracy," the group stated.
CHRICED, therefore, urged the Independent National Electoral Commission to implement the Electoral Act by stopping early campaigning, reactivating electoral reforms suggested by the Justice Uwais Committee, and rebuilding public confidence in democratic procedures.
The group also called for immediate changes to revive the judiciary's autonomy, safeguard public participation, and put an end to the persecution of opposition members, media personnel, and advocates.
"Democracy is not a privilege—it is essential. When it fades, oppression flourishes. Let us stand—without rage, but with determination. Let us call for responsibility, fairness, and participation. The destiny of our country does not rely on the bravery of a select few, but on the moral awareness of everyone," Zikirullahi stated.
Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info).
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