By Julian Osamoto
The Nigeria Civil Society Situation Room has warned of voter intimidation, electoral violence and the alleged misuse of public office ahead of 2027 general election.
The coalition issued the warning on Tuesday, at a news conference in Abuja, to mark the 2026 International Day of Democracy.
Convener of the group Yunusa Ya’u while addressing journalists, expressed concern over threats allegedly directed at citizens due to their political choices.
The Situation Room specifically condemned reports of directives telling citizens to “vote APC or leave the community”, saying such allegations require prompt and impartial investigation.
He noted that no Nigerian should face threats of violence, loss of livelihood or displacement for exercising the right to vote or supporting a political party.
The coalition also raised concerns about alleged attempts to use public appointments, administrative powers and government resources to compel political loyalty or secure electoral advantage.
The coalition called on INEC, security agencies, the Judiciary and other relevant institutions to investigate allegations of intimidation, electoral violence and abuse of public office and apply sanctions where violations are established.
The Situation Room said the credibility of the 2027 elections would depend not only on election-day procedures but also on the political environment, institutional preparedness and protection of citizens’ rights.
It cites Afrobarometer findings showing that 77 per cent of Nigerians were dissatisfied with the way democracy was working, while only 23 per cent trusted INEC. However, 64 per cent still preferred democracy to any other form of government.
The coalition assured of it’s readiness to intensify monitoring of electoral preparations, political party conduct, campaign financing, violence, hate speech and misinformation ahead of the 2027 polls.
