A coalition of 24 prominent Nigerians has expanded the scope of the GoNigeria Initiative, shifting its focus from voter mobilisation to a broader campaign aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s democratic foundations.
The group, comprising respected figures from business, religion, civil society, entertainment and public service announced on Wednesday that it will now advocate reforms in four critical areas: electoral integrity, freedom of speech, judicial independence, and national security.
Convened by Stanbic IBTC Bank founder Atedo Peterside, the initiative includes Bishop Matthew Kukah, former Emir of Kano Muhammadu Sanusi II, activist Aisha Yesufu, musician Folarin Falana (Falz), former Aviation Minister Osita Chidoka, Muhammad Ali Pate, Arunma Oteh, Yemi Adamolekun, Hamzat Lawal, Ayisha Osori, and Kashim Ibrahim-Imam, among others drawn from Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.
The coalition explained that while encouraging citizens especially young people to register, collect their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), and participate in elections remains important, democracy must go beyond periodic voting.
According to the group, without strong institutions and protected rights, Nigeria’s democracy risks remaining procedural rather than transformative.
On electoral reform, the advocates expressed concern over vote-buying, intimidation, manipulation of results, and administrative weaknesses that continue to erode public confidence. They stressed that credible elections are essential to restoring legitimacy to the democratic process.
The group also identified freedom of speech as central to accountable governance, warning that suppressing dissent weakens democracy and opens the door to authoritarian tendencies. It further underscored the importance of an independent and efficient judiciary capable of upholding the rule of law, resolving disputes fairly, and protecting fundamental rights.
Addressing security challenges, the coalition noted that insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, communal clashes, and election-related violence have restricted political participation and undermined state authority. Citizens, they argued, cannot meaningfully engage in democratic processes under conditions of fear and instability.
Beyond institutional reforms, the coalition emphasised the need for active citizen participation, insisting that democracy can only thrive when citizens understand, value, and defend it.
The statement concluded with a call to action, urging Nigerians to join the movement and play their part in safeguarding democratic governance.
