The Nigeria Civil Society Situation Room has called for urgent democratic reforms and greater accountability from public officials as the country prepares for the 2027 general elections. The call was made during a Democracy Day Dialogue and Photo Exhibition held in Abuja to commemorate June 12 and reflect on Nigeria’s democratic journey. The event, themed “June 12: From Symbolism to System Change. The Role of Civil Society in Sustaining Nigeria’s Democracy,” attracted civil society leaders, pro-democracy activists, diplomats and development partners.
Convener of the Situation Room and Executive Director of Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), Yunusa Z. Ya’u, described June 12 as a defining moment that united Nigerians against military rule and paved the way for democratic governance. He noted that despite over two decades of uninterrupted civilian rule, many Nigerians are still grappling with poverty, unemployment, insecurity and poor governance. Ya’u stressed that democracy must deliver tangible benefits to citizens, insisting that strong institutions and effective accountability mechanisms remain critical to national development.
British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Richard Montgomery, praised Nigerian civil society groups for their role in defending democratic values and expanding civic participation. He reaffirmed the United Kingdom’s commitment to supporting credible, peaceful and inclusive elections ahead of 2027, while emphasizing the importance of protecting civic space. Montgomery also urged greater participation of women, youths and persons with disabilities in the democratic process, describing inclusive governance as key to sustainable democracy. Panelists at the dialogue warned of growing threats to democratic institutions and called for renewed citizen engagement to ensure the ideals of June 12 translate into meaningful reforms, accountable leadership and improved living conditions for Nigerians.
