Former Bayelsa State Governor Henry Seriake Dickson has called for stronger protection of Nigeria’s democracy, urging the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), judiciary and security agencies to operate independently ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Dickson made the call after meeting a joint delegation from the International Republican Institute (IRI) and National Democratic Institute (NDI), where he discussed the political environment in Nigeria and the challenges facing opposition parties.
The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) leader urged international partners to support INEC, build the capacity of political parties and intensify monitoring of the forthcoming elections to ensure Nigerians can vote freely without intimidation.
He also called for security agencies to remain impartial and warned against politicians allegedly using armed thugs, weapons and security personnel to influence elections through violence.
Dickson said individuals who terrorise, kill or intimidate citizens during elections must be identified, prosecuted and punished, adding that international sanctions should be considered where Nigeria’s institutions are unable to act effectively.
He specifically called for robust monitoring of elections in the Niger Delta and Bayelsa State, stressing that every Nigerian should have confidence that their vote will count.
Daily Times
