The GoNigeria Initiative has expanded its mandate beyond voter mobilisation to advocate electoral reform, freedom of speech, judicial reform and security, declaring these pillars essential to Nigeria’s democratic survival.
In a press release titled “Important Overview On Nigeria’s Democratic Path” dated 11 February, 2026, GoNigeria said that as the country strives to strengthen its institutions, “it is imperative to ensure that democratic principles and institutions take root.”
The statement stressed that sustaining democracy requires “a deeper understanding and appreciation of democracy—what life in a free society truly means, the institutional arrangements that sustain it, and the personal behaviors necessary for it to endure and prosper.”
Evolution Of The Initiative
The group explained that it was initially conceived to promote full citizen participation in elections, particularly among young people.
“The GoNigeria Initiative was conceived to promote full citizen participation in the electoral process —especially among young people,” the statement said.
It noted that youths were encouraged to register with the Independent National Electoral Commission, collect their Permanent Voters Cards and participate actively in general elections.
However, the organisation said it has now broadened its focus.
“GoNigeria considers it necessary to expand its mandate to include advocacy for electoral reform, freedom of speech, judicial reform, and the security of life and property.”
The expansion, it added, is based on the understanding that “building a durable democracy in Nigeria requires far more than periodic elections.”
Electoral Reform At The Core
The statement described electoral reform as central to democratic legitimacy, noting that elections are “the primary means through which citizens choose their leaders.”
It warned that “flawed elections—characterized by vote-buying, result manipulation, intimidation, and weak electoral administration—have often undermined public confidence in democracy.”
According to GoNigeria, “Without credible elections, democracy risks becoming symbolic rather than substantive.”
Free Speech And Judicial Independence
The initiative also described freedom of speech as “the lifeblood of democratic governance,” warning that “A democracy that silences dissent risks sliding into authoritarianism, even if elections continue to hold.”
On the judiciary, it stated: “An independent, efficient, and credible judiciary is the backbone of constitutional democracy.”
It cautioned that “When the judiciary is weak, politicized, or corrupt, democracy loses both its moral authority and legal foundation.”
Security As Democratic Foundation
Addressing insecurity, the group said security remains a precondition for meaningful participation in governance.
“Security is a fundamental precondition for democracy. Citizens cannot participate meaningfully in democratic processes under conditions of fear and violence.”
It added that persistent insecurity in Nigeria has undermined democracy by restricting participation, eroding legitimacy and disrupting economic life.
The statement concluded with a call to action, urging citizens to take ownership of the democratic process.
“Join us and defend democracy.”
Faridah Abdulkadiri
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