Nigeria's Electoral Integrity Under Threat, Says Akume

Senator George Akume, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, has expressed deep concern over the lingering issue of corruption within Nigeria's electoral system. According to Akume, this trend has the potential to erode public trust in the country's democratic process. The SGF made this statement during a lecture at the State House Conference Centre in Abuja, as part of the activities marking the 2026 Democracy Day celebration. The lecture, themed '27 Years of Democratic Governance: Achievements, Challenges and the Road Ahead,' provided a platform for Akume to reflect on Nigeria's democratic journey since its return to civilian rule in 1999. He noted that despite the significant democratic gains recorded, the persistent allegations of corruption in the electoral process pose a significant threat to the country's democratic consolidation. 'Electoral integrity remains a work in progress. While our electoral management body and the judiciary have demonstrated growing independence, persistent allegations of corruption in the electoral system and processes remain critical to its integrity,' Akume stated. He emphasized that democracy is not just about voting, but also about ensuring that every vote counts equally. Akume urged Nigerians to actively participate in strengthening democratic institutions and protecting the country's democratic achievements. Reflecting on the past 27 years, Akume described Nigeria's democratic journey as one marked by resilience, determination, and notable progress. The country has successfully conducted eight consecutive general elections, witnessed peaceful transfers of power across different political parties and regions, and experienced a historic transition from a ruling party to the opposition. Despite these achievements, Akume stressed the need to address the challenges that could weaken public confidence in democracy. He cautioned against allowing ethnic, religious, and regional divisions to undermine the country's democratic foundations. Akume highlighted the achievements recorded under democratic governance, including economic expansion, improved financial inclusion, and investments in critical infrastructure projects such as the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and the Sokoto-Badagry Superhighway. He also cited reforms in the power sector and expanded access to education and healthcare through initiatives like the National Health Insurance Scheme, the Universal Basic Education programme, and the Nigerian Education Loan Fund. The SGF challenged Nigerians to envision the type of democracy they hoped to build over the next 27 years, emphasizing the need for collective effort to strengthen democratic institutions and protect the country's democratic achievements.