Former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Timi Frank, has called on Nigeria’s electoral and democratic institutions to act with neutrality and urgency ahead of the 2027 general elections, warning that failure to do so could trigger unrest.
In a statement issued on Sunday, Frank said that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the judiciary, and security agencies had critical responsibilities in safeguarding the rule of law and ensuring free and credible polls. He cautioned that widespread mistrust, if left unaddressed, risked undermining stability.
Frank welcomed INEC’s recent decision to recognise the leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and to advance the registration process of additional political associations. He described the step as a sign of electoral inclusiveness but argued that Nigerians remained sceptical of the commission’s neutrality in light of shortcomings observed during recent by-elections.
He called on INEC to push for constitutional and electoral reforms through the National Assembly, including the adoption of electronic transmission of results, and urged the appointment of leadership figures with proven integrity as the commission prepares for new transitions.
Turning to the role of security agencies, Frank said they must avoid partisanship and focus on protecting voters, preventing violence, and guaranteeing safe elections. He also appealed to the judiciary to remain impartial when adjudicating electoral disputes, stressing that the credibility of democratic governance depends on public confidence in the courts.
On voter engagement, Frank encouraged Nigerians to participate actively in the democratic process, register to vote, and safeguard their ballots, while acknowledging that apathy has been fuelled by doubts about the credibility of past elections.
He warned that unless electoral and security institutions adopt reforms and demonstrate greater independence, Nigeria could face growing political instability.
Frank further urged international partners to continue pressing for reforms that strengthen democratic practices, while calling for accountability measures to discourage electoral malpractice.
