Nigeria’s democratic progress depends on all stakeholders — Akhaine

A Lagos State University lecturer, Professor Sylvester Akhaine, has called for a stronger collaboration among the media, Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and voters to ensure credible elections in the 2027 general elections, saying Nigeria’s democratic progress depends on all stakeholders

The political scientist said this on Thursday when he delivered the 4th Annual Lateef Jakande Memorial Lecture 2026 in Lagos.

Akhaine said Nigeria’s democratic progress depended on all stakeholders carrying out their constitutional responsibilities.

According to him: “The political setting is full of illiberal practices leading to a consequent de-empowerment of the citizens.

“All stakeholders, the media, INEC, voters and the general populace have a role to play.” 

Akhaine urged journalists to remain committed to truth as the country prepares for the next general election.

He said: “The media must stand by the truth.” 

Referring to the constitutional responsibilities of the media, he added: “In stating that the media should ‘uphold the fundamental objectives contained in this Chapter and uphold the responsibility and accountability of the Government to the people’, it has provided it with a progressive and popular ideology.

“Fidelity to this ideological prescription is desirable. 

“This should be the media’s beacon as we navigate the build-up to the 2027 general election.” 

On electoral reforms, Akhaine said INEC must continue strengthening the credibility of elections.

He said: “INEC has its constitutional role carved out for it — manage the elections in credible ways.” 

He also advocated the implementation of the Justice Mohammed Uwais Electoral Reform Panel recommendations.

According to him: “The Uwais Panel report was more futuristic. 

“The appointive power should be removed from the executive and placed in the parliament of representatives of the people.”

Akhaine stressed the need for sustained voter education.

He said: “The voters require continuing education to enhance their capacity for informed choice in ways that undermine the tendency to succumb to financial inducement of unscrupulous politicians.”

Expressing optimism about Nigeria’s democratic future, he concluded: “If these critical stakeholders play their role, it is my conviction that the Nigerian democratic train would be steered on the right course.”

The Chairman of the occasion and former INEC National Commissioner for the South West, Prof. Lai Olorode, underscored the importance of election security and responsible media practice.

Olurode said: “The media has an important role in correcting misconceptions about service in government.

“However, while discussing credible elections, we should also remember the importance of election security.

“Without security, credible elections cannot take place.

“Nigeria remains our only country.

“We must all work together to strengthen it.

“I also thank the Nigerian Guild of Editors for continuing to honour Alhaji Lateef Jakande’s legacy.

𝕤𝕖𝕖 𝕞𝕠𝕣𝕖/𝕨𝕒𝕥𝕔𝕙 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕧𝕚𝕕𝕖𝕠 𝕙𝕖𝕣𝕖