A coalition of pro-democracy organisations led by the Centre for Human Rights and Accountability Network (CHRAN) has called for the adoption of the principles and electoral framework that defined the June 12, 1993 presidential election, urging authorities to use it as a reference point in strengthening the credibility of the 2027 general elections.
The coalition made the call during the 2026 Democracy Day Annual Public Lecture held in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, themed: “The Dangers of Vote Selling in a Democracy.”
The event brought together civil society actors, members of the academia, students, and representatives of human rights organisations, including the Akwa Ibom Human Rights Community, who collectively expressed concern over declining voter confidence and persistent electoral malpractice in Nigeria.
In his address, the director of CHRAN, Otuekong Franklyn Isong, said the June 12, 1993 presidential election, won by the late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola, remains a benchmark for credible elections in Nigeria’s democratic history.
He argued that the transparency, voter confidence, and broad national acceptance that characterised the election should be revisited as Nigeria prepares for the 2027 polls.
According to him, restoring credibility in the electoral process would require a deliberate commitment to electoral reforms, stronger institutions, and renewed civic responsibility among citizens.
Isong stressed that the increasing incidence of vote buying and voter apathy poses a serious threat to democratic consolidation, warning that unless urgent steps are taken, public trust in elections may continue to decline.
The CHRAN director described vote selling as one of the most dangerous threats to Nigeria’s democracy, noting that it undermines accountability and weakens governance outcomes.
He called for intensified voter education and civic awareness campaigns to discourage citizens from exchanging their votes for financial or material gain.
Isong also urged political parties to promote issue-based campaigns ahead of the 2027 elections, rather than relying on inducement or intimidation of voters.
The coalition also used the platform to advocate for the decentralisation of Nigeria’s security architecture, backing the establishment of State Police and Forest Guards as measures to address worsening insecurity across the country.
The group commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the National Assembly for what it described as progress toward strengthening sub-national security arrangements.
It further called on the federal government to consider declaring a state of emergency on security, arguing that the scale of violence and abductions in parts of the country demands urgent and coordinated intervention.
CHRAN also demanded the immediate release of abducted school children and teachers across Nigeria, insisting that government must intensify efforts to secure the safe return of all victims currently in captivity.
The organisation said the protection of lives and property remains the primary responsibility of the state and must not be compromised under any circumstance.
Reflecting on Nigeria’s democratic journey, Isong said the 1999 Constitution requires significant review to address emerging political, economic, and security challenges facing the country.
He maintained that constitutional restructuring remains essential for strengthening governance and ensuring a more effective federal system.
CHRAN reaffirmed its commitment to promoting accountability, transparency, human rights, and democratic governance, stressing that it remains a non-partisan organisation dedicated to national development.
The lecture featured a keynote address delivered by former Vice Chancellor of the University of Uyo and Professor of Law, Prof. Enefiok Essien (SAN), who was selected from among six eminent scholars nominated nationwide.
