Shettima, Atiku, Obi, Abdulsalam to Speak on Electoral Malpractices, Corruption at Democracy Conference

A national conference aimed at addressing electoral malpractices, ineffective political parties, and corruption will take place on Monday, bringing together key political figures and governance experts. The two-day event, themed “Strengthening Nigeria’s Democracy: Pathway to Good Governance and Political Integrity,” seeks to develop solutions to the structural and functional flaws undermining Nigeria’s democratic system.

Among the prominent speakers at the conference are Vice President Kashim Shettima, former Head of State General Abdulsalam Abubakar, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, and Labour Party’s former presidential candidate Peter Obi. Also expected to speak is Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, former presidential candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP). The keynote address will be delivered by Ghana’s former Vice President, Mahamudu Bawumia, while Professor Jibrin Ibrahim will discuss the challenges and prospects of the 2027 elections.

Speaking at a press conference in Abuja, Dr. Otive Igbuzor, founding Executive Director of the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy & Development (Centre LSD), emphasized the conference’s goal of tackling the pressing issues threatening democracy in Nigeria. He noted that despite 25 years of uninterrupted civilian rule, the country’s democratic system remains plagued by electoral fraud, weak governance structures, and diminishing public trust.

The event is organized in collaboration with key institutions, including the Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD), Westminster Foundation for Democracy (WfD), Peering Advocacy and Advancement Centre in Africa (PAACA), and the National Peace Committee.

Dr. Igbuzor stressed that Nigeria’s political landscape has been dominated by elite groups, leaving many citizens alienated from governance. He underscored the urgent need for democratic reforms that promote transparency, accountability, and inclusive participation. A key focus of the conference will be strengthening political parties to ensure they uphold internal democracy and represent the interests of the people.

The organizers also highlighted the importance of citizen mobilization in sustaining democracy. They aim to reignite civic engagement, encouraging Nigerians to actively participate in the democratic process and demand accountability from leaders. By fostering an informed and engaged citizenry, they hope to build a resilient democracy that truly serves the people.

The conference will also serve as a platform for forming sustainable partnerships among government institutions, civil society, the media, and citizens. Through discussions and technical sessions, stakeholders will develop actionable commitments to enhance governance, transparency, and public trust in democratic institutions.

The organizers expressed confidence that the outcomes of the conference would lead to increased public awareness, stronger institutions, and renewed confidence in democracy. They emphasized the need for transformative leadership and concrete steps toward a political system built on integrity and accountability.