ActionAid Nigeria (AAN) has called on governments at all levels, civil society groups, and citizens to show renewed dedication to accountability and democratic principles.
The appeal was made in a statement on Tuesday by AAN Country Director, Dr. Andrew Mamedu, to mark the 2025 International Day of Democracy (IDD), themed “From Voice to Action.”
He explained that the global commemoration provides an opportunity to reflect on the state of democratic governance worldwide. According to him, this year’s theme is a reminder that democracy requires more than just allowing citizens to express their views—it also demands concrete actions that translate people’s voices into real governance outcomes.
“For Nigeria, this commemoration is an urgent demand for a system where the voices of the people are not only heard but acted upon, to mend the cracks in our democracy and safeguard its foundations. Despite more than 25 years of uninterrupted civilian rule, the promise of accountability, good governance, and credible elections still feels elusive to many,” Mamedu said.
He criticized what he described as executive overreach in the Rivers State political crisis, condemning the declaration of a state of emergency and the suspension of a democratically elected governor and members of the State House of Assembly.
Mamedu stressed that the presidency must be held accountable for such actions, while also urging the National Assembly to live up to its constitutional duty of providing checks and balances on the executive.
On the judiciary, he noted that Nigerians expect it to remain the true hope of the common man by being bold, timely, and decisive in delivering judgments, especially in cases with constitutional implications.
He further demanded the immediate reinstatement of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan in compliance with a Federal High Court judgment.
Mamedu also pressed for urgent electoral reforms, particularly the legal backing for electronic transmission of results, which he said would enhance transparency and strengthen confidence in Nigeria’s electoral system.