In a national press conference, the Conference of Northern States Civil Society Networks raised alarm over potential dangers jeopardizing Nigerian democracy. The primary concerns highlighted include alleged attempts to manipulate election outcomes in Kano, Zamfara, and Plateau states, escalating insecurity, economic hardships, reckless borrowings, and budget provisions in the 2024 appropriation
Expressing worry about the declining state of democracy in Nigeria, the conference emphasized the suppression of citizens’ voices in recent elections. They stressed the importance of respecting the wishes of the people, citing instances in Imo, Kano, Zamfara, Plateau, and presidential elections where contestations were prevalent.
The group highlighted the alarming increase in poverty and economic hardship, emphasizing the need to address the national emergency posed by the rising multi-dimensional poverty levels. They cautioned against sparking political conflicts, especially in opposition states, as it could lead to the destruction of the nation.
Despite recent changes in the leadership of the security sector, the conference expressed disappointment at the persistent insecurity, citing killings, child trafficking, banditry, and kidnappings, particularly in states like Katsina, Plateau, Sokoto, Niger, Kaduna, and Zamfara. They called for accountability and synergy among security agencies.
Expressing deep concern about the current state of the judiciary, the conference pointed out conflicting judgments that have eroded trust in the legal system. They urged the Judicial Service Commission to take swift action and implement measures to restore faith in the judiciary.
The conference issued advisories, urging President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to avoid interfering with judicial processes in opposition states, hold himself and security agencies accountable for ongoing insecurity, and convene a national economic summit. Additionally, they called for internal fund-raising rather than relying on excessive borrowings and appealed for a thorough investigation into conflicting judicial judgments.
Signed by various Civil Society Organizations from across the Northern states led by Ibrahim Waiyya the chairman and Ibrahim Yusuf the secretary ,the conference’s demands underscore the urgency of addressing critical issues facing Nigeria’s democracy and overall stability.
