As Nigerians mark the 33rd anniversary of the June 12, 1993 election and 27 years of uninterrupted civilian rule, Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA) has warned that worsening insecurity poses a serious threat to Nigeria’s democracy, rule of law and the credibility of the 2027 general elections.
In a statement issued on Thursday by its Media and Communication Officer, Robert Egbe, the organisation said the growing wave of kidnapping, terrorism, banditry and communal violence is undermining citizens’ ability to live, work and participate in democratic processes.
“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,” said CAPPA’s Assistant Executive Director, Zikora Ibeh.
The group expressed concern over the continued spread of kidnapping-for-ransom across the country, particularly the targeting of schools, children and vulnerable groups.
According to CAPPA, at least 4,722 people were abducted in 997 kidnapping incidents between July 2024 and June 2025, while 762 people lost their lives in kidnapping-related incidents during the same period. It added that Nigerians paid an estimated N2.57 billion in ransom over the year.
CAPPA said the growing number of videos showing abducted Nigerians being tortured, humiliated and forced to appeal for ransom payments highlights the human cost of the security crisis.
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“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. These tragedies represent a profound failure of the state’s most fundamental responsibility, which is the protection of life and property,” Ibeh stated.
The organisation called on the Federal Government and security agencies to intensify efforts to secure the release of all persons in captivity and ensure those responsible are brought to justice.
“All criminal elements must be made to understand that Nigeria and its people are out of bounds. No group should be allowed to terrorise communities and undermine national life without facing the full consequences of the law,” the organisation said.
CAPPA also urged authorities to communicate more regularly with the public on rescue efforts and measures being taken to prevent future attacks.
“While security operations often require discretion, the current shortage of official information is fuelling rumours, anxiety, and a growing sense of abandonment among affected families and communities. Nigerians deserve reassurance that every available resource is being deployed to bring their loved ones home safely,” it stated.
The group warned that persistent insecurity could weaken voter turnout ahead of the 2027 elections.
“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. A democracy cannot be considered fully representative when large numbers of citizens are effectively excluded by fear and insecurity,” it said.
It called for greater investment in intelligence gathering, community policing, early warning systems and stronger collaboration between security agencies and local communities.
It also urged governments at all levels to address underlying drivers of violence, including poverty, youth unemployment, corruption and social exclusion.
“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.
“Defending democracy, therefore, requires defending the lives and dignity of Nigerians. The government must act with urgency to rescue those in captivity, dismantle criminal networks, and restore public confidence. That is the minimum obligation of any democratic state and the standard by which Nigerians will continue to judge their democracy,” CAPPA added.
Alex is a business journalist cum data enthusiast with the Pinnacle Daily. He can be reached via ealex@thepinnacleng.com, @ehime_alex on X