As preparations intensify for Nigeria’s 2027 general elections, a coalition of independent election observers has raised concerns over the safety of its members, calling on authorities to guarantee protection and ensure a credible electoral process nationwide.
The appeal was made on Monday by Chief Dr Lazarus Nwachukwu, leader of a national delegation of independent observers drawn from groups including the Centre for the Promotion of Peace and Unity, the National Council of NGOs and Civil Society Organizations of Nigeria, and the Forum of Independent Election Observers of Nigeria, in a statement made available to journalists.
In the statement signed by Alhaji Bashiru Mohammed on behalf of the delegation, Nwachukwu urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the country’s security agencies to ensure that the 2027 elections are conducted without intimidation, harassment, or misuse of state institutions.
He emphasised that observers must be allowed to operate freely before, during, and after the elections, noting that their role is vital to strengthening democracy and public confidence in the electoral process.
“We will not allow anyone, regardless of status, to intimidate or undermine the work of this delegation,” Nwachukwu said, stressing the group’s commitment to impartiality and transparency.
According to him, the delegation comprises seasoned professionals and administrators with decades of experience in election observation. He reiterated the group’s long-standing procedures, which include formally notifying electoral and security authorities of their activities, conducting courtesy visits to relevant institutions, and organising press briefings at various stages of the electoral process.
He added that the observers would independently monitor election activities in line with established objectives and provide detailed reports to electoral bodies and other stakeholders to help improve Nigeria’s democratic system.
Looking ahead, Nwachukwu disclosed plans to mobilise up to 5,000 independent observers for the 2027 elections, aligning their operations with international best practices.
He also called on Nigerians to cooperate with observer teams across the country, emphasising that public support is crucial to ensuring transparency and accountability during the elections.