Civil Society Coalition Seeks Adoption Of June 12, 1993 Template For 2027 Polls

A coalition of pro-democracy groups led by a Civil Society Organisation, Centre for Human Rights and Accountability Network (CHRAN), has called on the federal, state governments and other concerned authorities to adopt the template used in the June 12, 1993 election which the late Chief M.K.O Abiola won, having been adjudged the freest and most credible election in Nigeria’s history.

Addressing the annual public lecture, an event to mark the 2026 Democracy Day held in Uyo at the weekend, participants, including the Akwa Ibom human rights community, the academia and students pointed at the establishment of state police and forest guards as a step towards containing the prevailing security challenges and commended President Bola Tinubu and the National Assembly for the feat.

The coalition tasked Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State to fully implement the state’s anti-open grazing law to curb criminal activities associated with cattle rearers and herders.

The director of CHRAN, Otuekong Franklyn Isong, called for all hands to be in deck to rescue the country from insecurity and other socio-economic challenges.

Isong, who expressed concern with the worsening security situation in Nigeria, citing recurring cases of school abductions and violent attacks in several parts of the country, tasked Nigerians to be in the vanguard of restoring peace for development to thrive.

He urged President Tinubu to spearhead a comprehensive decentralisation of the nation’s security architecture.

According to him, empowering sub-national governments through the establishment of state police and the National Forest Guards would significantly strengthen efforts to combat insecurity and protect lives and property.

The rights group also called for the immediate release of all abducted school children and teachers across the country, stressing that the safety of citizens remains the primary responsibility of government.

Reflecting on Nigeria’s democratic journey, Isong paid tribute to heroes of the June 12 struggle, including the late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola, whose annulled 1993 presidential election eventually became the symbol of Nigeria’s democratic rebirth.

He noted that while democracy remains preferable to any other form of government, the country’s 1999 Constitution requires fundamental review to effectively address Nigeria’s growing political, economic and security challenges.

He reaffirmed CHRAN’s commitment to promoting accountability, transparency, human rights, rule of law and democratic governance, stressing that the organisation remains non-partisan and dedicated solely to the welfare of Nigerians.

The lecture featured a keynote address by former Vice Chancellor of the University of Uyo and Professor of Law, Prof. Enefiok Essien (SAN), who was selected by the organisation from among six eminent scholars nominated nationwide for the role.