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Ahead of the 2027 general elections, the GoNigeria Initiative, a civic advocacy group, has urged Nigerians to look beyond elections and focus on strengthening democratic institutions.
In a statement signed by its Convener, Atedo Peterside and made available to PREMIUM TIMES on Wednesday, the group said Nigeria’s democratic project remains fragile because many of the structures meant to sustain a free society have not taken firm root.
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It also said that while elections are central to democracy, they cannot substitute for strong institutions, protected rights and security structures that command public trust.
The group, which was originally launched to promote citizen participation in elections, said it mobilised young Nigerians to register with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), collect Permanent Voters Cards and turn out to vote.
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Expanded mandate
It added that its mandate has expanded to include advocacy for electoral reform, freedom of speech, judicial reform and the security of life and property.
“Democracy is not something that is secured on election day and then forgotten. It is built over time through credible institutions, protected freedoms and a justice system that citizens believe will treat them fairly, regardless of who is in power,” the statement said.
According to the group, persistent weaknesses in Nigeria’s electoral process continue to erode public confidence in governance. It said practices such as vote-buying, intimidation, manipulation of results and weak election administration have contributed to low participation, prolonged legal disputes and recurring questions about the legitimacy of leadership outcomes.
“When citizens lose confidence in how leaders emerge, elections become rituals without meaning, and democracy loses the substance that gives it life,” it added
Freedom of expression, judiciary
The group also said freedom of expression remains central to democratic life, arguing that the ability of citizens, civil society and the media to question authority is necessary for informed political choices and political inclusion.
“A society that punishes dissent or silences critical voices, even subtly, weakens its own democracy and creates conditions in which abuse of power can thrive,” the statement said.
On the judiciary, the group said an independent and credible justice system remains essential for upholding the rule of law, resolving political disputes and protecting fundamental rights. It warned that insecurity continues to limit democratic participation, noting that violence and fear restrict civic engagement and erode trust in state institutions.
The group said democracy cannot flourish in an environment where citizens fear for their safety, adding that persistent insecurity often fuels calls for authoritarian responses that further weaken democratic norms.
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Advocates
GoNigeria, an initiative of Anap Foundation, also said strengthening Nigeria’s democracy would require not only institutional reforms but also citizens who understand democratic values and actively defend them in daily life.
The statement was issued on behalf of GoNigeria’s leadership, led by Mr Peterside as Convener, alongside the following advocates: Abubakar Siddique Mohammed, Aisha Yesufu, Arunma Oteh, Ayisha Osori, Obonganwan Barbara Etim James, Binta Max Gbinije, Dike Chukwumerije, Dudu Mamman Manuga, Folarin Falana (Falz), Hamzat Lawal, Ibrahim Dahiru Waziri and Kashim Ibrahim-Imam.
Others are Bishop, Matthew Kukah, Muhammad Ali Pate, Muhammad Sanusi II (Emir of Kano), Ngozi Coker, Nuruddeen Lemu, Osita Chidoka, Salamatu Hussaini Suleiman, Sola Akinyede, Tomiwa Aladekomo, and Tony Rapu.
