A house razed in Benue state as a result of insecurity
The Kimpact Development Initiative (KDI), a civil society organisation (CSO), says Nigeria’s democracy is under “increasing pressure”.
In a statement commemorating the 2025 International Day of Democracy, Bukola Idowu, executive director of the Kimpact Development Initiative (KDI), said civil rule should be more than a date on the calendar.
“It is the daily practice of fair rules applied consistently, leaders held accountable, and citizens empowered with a voice—not just on election day, but every day in between,” the statement reads.
“Democracy is not abstract; it is practical, measured by whether people can truly hold power to account and whether governance delivers tangible improvements in people’s lives.
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“Across Nigeria and Africa, democracy is under increasing pressure. Economic hardship and insecurity strain public patience.
“Disinformation and political polarisation weaken trust. Too many groups, especially women, young people, persons with disabilities, and other marginalised communities, continue to encounter barriers to participation.
“Civic space, instead of being protected, is sometimes restricted. Yet this is not a story of inevitable decline for Nigeria and Africa. It is also one of resilience and possibility.
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“Nigerians continue to organise, observe, fact-check, litigate, volunteer, and innovate. That civic energy is our national advantage if institutions match it with openness, accountability, and reform.”
Idowu said KDI’s mission is to make democracy work by advocating for election integrity, transparency in campaign finance and political spending, and civic education.
“For us, democracy is not about optics; it is about outcomes. The real test is simple: does democracy work for everyone, or only for a privileged few? he asked.
“As part of this commitment, we invite you to our upcoming UNGA side event, ‘Strengthening Democratic Foundations in Africa’, on 18 September 2025.”
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He said the event will bring together reformers, researchers, and practitioners to share practical steps and concrete commitments to strengthen democratic resilience across the continent.
Interested participants can register to attend via https://unga80event.kimpact.org.ng/.
