ActionAid Nigeria has urged the Federal Government to reinforce democratic frameworks, uphold legal principles, and halt the ongoing deterioration in governance and accountability.
Marking the International Day of Democracy in Abuja on Monday, Dr. Andrew Mamedu, Country Director of ActionAid Nigeria, emphasized that this day is a crucial reminder that democracy must transcend mere words and be demonstrated through concrete measures that enhance citizens’ well-being.
“Our democratic journey stands at a pivotal crossroads,” Mamedu remarked. “Despite over 25 years of continuous civilian administration, many Nigerians still find the ideals of democracy-effective governance, transparent elections, and accountability-remain out of reach.”
Referencing the 2025 Chandler Good Government Index, which placed Nigeria 116th out of 120 countries, alongside the Mo Ibrahim Index of African Governance ranking Nigeria 33rd among 54 African nations, ActionAid characterized these results as “a stark reflection of systemic failure.”
Mamedu linked these shortcomings to ineffective leadership and a widening gap of public trust, further exacerbated by soaring unemployment and increasing poverty levels, which have deepened the nation’s democratic challenges.
Regarding the political turmoil in Rivers State, Mamedu criticized the federal government‘s recent declaration of a state of emergency as an alarming misuse of power.
“Employing a state of emergency as a political weapon that restricts legislators from fulfilling their constitutional roles is a direct assault on democracy,” he asserted.
He cautioned that such maneuvers not only erode the principles of federalism but also jeopardize the integrity of electoral processes and the rights of citizens who have freely chosen their representatives.
ActionAid also condemned the ongoing suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan from the National Assembly, despite a court order mandating her reinstatement.
“Ignoring a judicial directive to reinstate Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan epitomizes legislative arrogance and disenfranchises the people of Kogi Central Senatorial District,” Mamedu stated.
He stressed that this blatant disregard for the judiciary sets a perilous precedent, enabling political bodies to act without accountability or respect for the rule of law.
Drawing inspiration from international examples, Mamedu highlighted the youth-led demonstrations in Nepal, where Generation Z activists harnessed digital tools such as TikTok and Telegram to demand democratic reforms and accountability.
These protests culminated in the resignation of Nepal’s Prime Minister, illustrating the potent influence of youth engagement in political transformation.
“Nigeria’s young population deserves the opportunity to spearhead change,” he affirmed. “They are not merely tomorrow’s leaders but today’s agents of transformation, whose perspectives must shape our democratic future.”
To rebuild public confidence and strengthen democratic governance, ActionAid Nigeria calls for the immediate reinstatement of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan in line with the Federal High Court’s ruling.
“An end to executive overreach in Rivers State, with full adherence to federalism and democratic principles.
“Prompt enactment of electoral reforms, including the adoption of electronic result transmission systems.
“Judicial bravery and promptness in resolving constitutional issues of national significance, especially concerning the legitimacy of presidential emergency declarations.
“A revitalized national dedication to transparency, accountability, and active citizen participation across all governance levels,” Mamedu concluded.
He further urged the Presidency, National Assembly, Judiciary, and all Nigerians to unite in defending democracy. “The moment for decisive action is now,” he declared.
