Why we started the Democracy Nigeria Project
A cross-party movement for citizens who want competitive elections, open parties and leaders who answer to voters.
Nigeria has held elections under civilian rule without interruption since 29 May 1999. That is worth protecting. But a democracy is more than a calendar of elections. It depends on parties that are open to their members, on institutions that follow the rules, and on citizens who turn up.
In 2023, fewer than three in ten registered voters cast a ballot for president. We started the Democracy Nigeria Project because that number should worry every Nigerian, whatever their party.
What we stand for
We are a pressure group for multiparty democracy. We do not campaign for a single party. We work with anyone, in any party or in none, who is widening the democratic space.
- Competitive elections. Voters should have real choices, and every vote should be counted where it was cast.
- Open parties. Candidates should be chosen by members through transparent primaries, not handed down.
- Accountable leaders. Public figures should be judged on their record, and that record should be public.
What we will do
We will organise members in every state, starting at ward and LGA level. We will explain the rules of the 2027 elections in plain language. We will press INEC, the National Assembly and party leaderships on the issues that decide whether elections are free and fair.
We will also publish profiles of democracy champions: politicians and civil society figures whose work strengthens the system. Each profile will carry a scorecard, and every entry on it will link to a public source.
How to take part
Most of our events will happen online, on X Spaces and live on TikTok, Instagram and Facebook, so anyone with a phone can take part. Town halls will follow in state capitals and LGAs.
Membership is free. We are launching in English, with Hausa, Yorùbá and Igbo editions to follow.
