The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has warned of what it describes as a deepening and coordinated assault on Nigeria’s democratic system ahead of the 2027 general elections, alleging a dangerous drift toward authoritarianism driven by political actors within the country.
In a statement issued on Sunday by its National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, the group said emerging political developments across the country point to increasing attempts to capture party structures, weaken institutions, and manipulate electoral outcomes.
HURIWA alleged that state governors and powerful political actors are tightening control over party machinery at all levels, warning that such influence could determine candidates long before elections are held.
According to the group, this trend risks reducing elections to “pre-determined outcomes,” where citizens are excluded from meaningful participation in choosing leaders.
The rights group also raised concerns over what it described as declining institutional independence, alleging growing interference in democratic processes and weakening public trust in key governance structures.
It said the situation is worsened by insecurity in parts of the country, where armed groups continue to displace communities, restrict farming activities, and, in some areas, impose illegal levies on residents.
HURIWA warned that the combination of political consolidation and insecurity could push Nigeria toward what it termed a “democracy in name only.”
“Governors are not kings. Political parties are not private estates. Nigeria is not a conquered territory,” the statement read.
The group insisted that the Nigerian Constitution guarantees participation, representation, and accountability, and cautioned against any system that allows imposition of candidates or undermines competitive elections.
HURIWA outlined a series of demands, including the restoration of internal democracy within political parties, stronger oversight by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and reforms to prevent political imposition.
It also called on the Federal Government to prioritise the recovery of territories affected by insecurity, strengthen protection for farming communities, and ensure the safe return of displaced persons.
The group urged the judiciary, legislature, and electoral bodies to maintain independence, while calling for legal reforms to criminalise anti-democratic practices within political parties.
HURIWA further appealed to civil society and the media to intensify monitoring and expose actions that could undermine democratic processes.
Warning Ahead of 2027
The organisation warned that failure to address these challenges could turn the 2027 elections into what it described as a “ceremonial endorsement of pre-selected leaders,” rather than a genuine democratic contest.
It urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and actively defend democratic values as the country approaches a critical political transition period.
“The time to act is now. Democracy must be defended firmly, collectively, and without compromise,” the statement added.
2027: HURIWA Raises Alarm Over ‘Coordinated Assault’ on Nigeria’s Democracy
