The British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Richard Montgomery, has emphasised the need for credible, peaceful and inclusive elections in 2027, warning that the quality of the polls will be critical to maintaining public trust in Nigeria’s democracy.
Montgomery made the call on Friday in Abuja at the Nigeria Civil Society Situation Room June 12 Democracy Day Dialogue and Photo Exhibition.
He underscored the importance of civil society organisations in safeguarding electoral integrity and strengthening democratic institutions ahead of the next general elections.
Reflecting on the significance of June 12 anniversary, the British envoy described the date as a lasting symbol of Nigeria’s democratic journey, stressing that democracy thrives through sustained citizen engagement, resilience and strong institutions.
“June 12 remains such a powerful symbol of your struggle to shape your democratic future. It represents a milestone, but it’s also an enduring reminder that democracy is built through courage, resilience and persistence of individual people who choose to act and support the process,” he said.
Montgomery noted that democracy should not be viewed as a one-off event but as an ongoing process that requires constant nurturing, adding that civil society groups have remained indispensable to Nigeria’s democratic progress.
“We strongly believe that democracy, despite all its flaws, is the best system for enabling people to shape the decisions that affect their lives. For such a huge, complicated and diverse country as Nigeria, democracy is incredibly important for your stability and your prosperity going forward,” he stated.
Turning to the 2027 elections, the envoy said the conduct of the polls would have far-reaching implications for Nigeria’s democratic development and standing across Africa.
“The credibility of the next elections will be vital for public confidence in the democratic process and for Nigeria’s continued progress, and indeed for its leadership across Africa and beyond.
“Ensuring that they are credible, peaceful and inclusive will require the collective efforts of many, and civil society organisations will be absolutely central to this.”
He further advocated broader participation in the electoral process, particularly among women, young people, persons with disabilities and other underrepresented groups.
“As the President said in his Democracy Day speech this morning, democracy fails when citizens doubt the process. We strongly believe that civil society organisations have key roles to play in holding the electoral process to account and making it more inclusive.
“The meaningful participation of women, younger people, persons with disabilities and other marginalised groups is important. This inclusion will determine whether citizens trust or doubt electoral outcomes,” he added.
Montgomery also reaffirmed the United Kingdom’s commitment to supporting initiatives aimed at deepening democratic governance, enhancing transparency and promoting credible elections in Nigeria.
“We will work with you in the coming months and years in championing credible electoral processes, strengthening democratic institutions and supporting organisations working for more inclusive processes and outcomes,” he said.
Also speaking at the event, the Executive Director of the Policy and Legal Advocacy Centre (PLAC) and Convener of the Situation Room, Clement Nwankwo, expressed concern over emerging trends in the country’s electoral landscape ahead of the 2027 polls.
Nwankwo cautioned against allowing the democratic gains symbolised by June 12 to be eroded by weaknesses in the electoral process.
“We do not want January 16 to be a defeat of June 12. The signals we are getting are not good enough. It is not encouraging,” he said.
He urged civil society organisations to remain vigilant and continue demanding accountability from institutions responsible for delivering credible elections.
“I think it behoves all of us in civil society to keep in touch with what is going on. Call INEC to account. Call the National Assembly to account. Call the ruling executive to account and hold everyone accountable for the delivery of free and fair elections,” he said.
