Corruption in electoral system undermining public trust -Akume

Nigeria's democratic journey since 1999 has seen significant progress, including eight consecutive general elections and peaceful transfers of power. However, persistent allegations of corruption within the electoral system continue to erode public confidence and undermine democratic consolidation, according to George Akume, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation.

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Electoral integrity remains a work in progress. While our electoral management body and the judiciary have demonstrated growing independence, persistent allegations of corruption in the electoral system and processes remain critical to its integrity.

Speaking at the 2026 Democracy Day celebration in Abuja, Akume highlighted that electoral integrity remains a critical challenge. "While our electoral management body and the judiciary have demonstrated growing independence, persistent allegations of corruption in the electoral system and processes remain critical to its integrity," he stated.

Akume emphasized that democracy is more than just voting; it is the guarantee that every vote counts equally. He called on Nigerians to actively participate in strengthening democratic institutions and safeguarding the nation's democratic achievements. The SGF acknowledged the resilience and determination shown throughout Nigeria's democratic path, noting the successful conduct of elections and peaceful power transitions across different parties and regions.

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Democracy is not merely the act of voting; it is the guarantee that every vote counts equally.

Despite these achievements, Akume cautioned that stakeholders must address challenges that threaten public credibility in democracy. "While acknowledging the gains of democratic governance, Nigeria must confront lingering challenges threatening the credibility of its democratic process," he warned, also cautioning against ethnic, religious, and regional divisions.

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While acknowledging the gains of democratic governance, Nigeria must confront lingering challenges threatening the credibility of its democratic process.