Politics
STAKEHOLDERS have renewed urgent calls for a comprehensive electoral reform and stronger institutional independence ahead of the upcoming 2027 general elections.
They made the call in Abuja on Tuesday at the annual June 12 commemoration lecture in honour of late Prof. Humphrey Nwosu and also official unveiling of the Humphrey Nwosu Centre for Democracy and Human Rights.
The event was organised by the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) and the Prof. Humphrey Nwosu Centre for Democracy and Human Rights.
The theme of the lecture is: ” Electoral Integrity and the Future of Credible Elections in Nigeria. “
Speaking, the Executive Secretary of NHRC, Dr Tony Ojukwu, SAN, said:”the theme of the lecture is timely, relevant, and forward-looking.
” It presents an opportunity for election managers, policymakers, political actors, civil society organizations, security agencies, the media, and indeed Nigerian voters to reflect deeply on the imperatives of credible elections, democratic accountability, peaceful participation, and public trust in democratic institutions.
” This Annual June 12 Commemoration Lecture is therefore expected to contribute meaningfully towards strengthening electoral integrity ahead of the 2027 General Elections and beyond by encouraging informed national dialogue, voter sensitisation, institutional accountability, and democratic participation across the country”.
Ojukwu said the lecture will also generate practical ideas, informed reflections, and constructive recommendations capable of strengthening Nigeria’s democratic institutions and safeguarding the integrity of future elections.
He said the collaboration between the National Human Rights Commission and the Prof. Humphrey N. Nwosu Centre for Democracy and Human Rights was strategic and timely.
According to him, It is founded on shared ideals and a common vision for a democratic society governed by justice, accountability, inclusion, and respect for the right to participate and assemble
” We recognise that democracy and human rights are inseparable.
“Credible elections, the rule of law, civic participation, freedom of expression, equality, and accountable governance are fundamental pillars of ademocratic society where human rights can flourish” he said.
Also speaking, Nnaemeka Nwosu, co-founder of the centre, wants to see a Nigeria and Africa where democracy thrives, human rights are protected, elections are credible and leaders serve with integrity,
” Let us build a nation where truth is never silenced. Where integrity is never negotiable, where democracy is not taken for granted, but fiercely protected ” he said.(NAN)
F.O
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