As Nigerians commemorate Democracy Day and the 33rd anniversary of the annulled June 12, 1993 presidential election, Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa has warned that worsening insecurity across the country poses a serious threat to democratic governance, the rule of law, and the credibility of the 2027 general elections.

In a statement issued to mark the occasion, the organisation urged the Federal Government to treat insecurity as a national emergency, stressing that democracy cannot thrive in an environment where citizens live in fear of kidnapping, terrorism, banditry, communal clashes, and other violent crimes.

According to CAPPA’s Assistant Executive Director, Zikora Ibeh, Nigerians are increasingly unable to move freely, operate businesses, farm, send their children to school, or participate fully in civic and political activities due to growing security concerns.

“Democracy cannot thrive where people are afraid to travel on highways, send their children to school, cultivate their farms, operate businesses, or participate in elections,” Ibeh said.

The organisation expressed concern over the continued spread of kidnapping-for-ransom across the country, describing the situation as a major setback to national development and public confidence in democratic institutions.

Citing available data, CAPPA said no fewer than 4,722 people were abducted in 997 kidnapping incidents between July 2024 and June 2025, while at least 762 persons lost their lives in kidnapping-related incidents during the same period. The group also noted that an estimated N2.57 billion was paid as ransom to kidnappers within the year.

The organisation described the persistent targeting of schoolchildren, women and young girls as particularly alarming, noting that many victims remain separated from their families for prolonged periods under traumatic conditions.

CAPPA also condemned the circulation of videos showing abducted Nigerians being tortured, humiliated, and forced to appeal for ransom payments, saying the footage highlights the human cost of the country’s security crisis.

“No Nigerian should have to plead for their life before a camera while criminal groups operate with impunity. No parent should have to endure the agony of not knowing whether a kidnapped child will return home alive,” Ibeh stated.

The group called on security agencies to intensify efforts to secure the release of all persons currently held captive and ensure that perpetrators are arrested and prosecuted.

It further urged government authorities to improve public communication regarding rescue efforts and security operations, arguing that the lack of regular updates has fuelled anxiety among affected families and communities.

CAPPA warned that continued insecurity could negatively impact voter turnout and civic participation ahead of the 2027 elections, particularly in communities affected by violence and displacement.

“Citizens who fear violence are less likely to engage in civic activities or turn out to vote. Communities displaced by insecurity face additional barriers to electoral participation,” the organisation stated.

To address the challenge, CAPPA advocated increased investment in intelligence gathering, community policing, early warning systems, and stronger collaboration between security agencies and local communities. It also called for improved welfare for security personnel and more effective prosecution of criminal networks.

Beyond security measures, the organisation urged governments at all levels to tackle underlying drivers of violence, including poverty, unemployment, corruption, weak institutions, environmental degradation, resource conflicts, and social exclusion.

As the country marks Democracy Day, CAPPA maintained that the promise of democracy cannot be separated from the safety and welfare of citizens.

“The significance of June 12 lies in its affirmation that sovereignty belongs to the people. That promise loses meaning when citizens cannot move freely, sleep peacefully, send their children to school, or participate in public life without fear,” the statement said.

The organisation added that restoring public confidence through improved security and the protection of lives and property remains essential to sustaining Nigeria’s democratic journey.