Judiciary Must Stay Independent Ahead Of 2027 Polls, Group Warns

A civil society organisation, Polling Unit Ambassadors of Nigeria (PUAN), has urged the judiciary to remain independent ahead of the 2027 general election, warning that public confidence in Nigeria’s democracy depends on the impartial administration of justice.

The call was made during the unveiling of the organisation’s platform in Abuja, where stakeholders also appealed to political leaders to reject violence and hate speech and embrace peaceful democratic participation.

Delivering the keynote address, Professor, Ambassador and investor, Michael Abiodun Michael, described the judiciary as the last line of defence for Nigeria’s democracy and cautioned against any perception that judges could be influenced by political interests.

“To the judiciary, you are the last line of defence for our democracy. The public must never perceive you as a tool in the hands of politicians. Justice must not only be done; it must be seen to be done,” he said.

Michael also urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and hold elected leaders accountable beyond election periods.

“Our role does not end with casting our votes. We must seek opportunities to protect information and be vigilant in defending our democratic institutions. We must hold our leaders accountable, not just on election day, but every single day,” he said.

Earlier, PUAN Ambassador-General, Captain Dabas Suleiman, called on political leaders and their supporters to reduce political tensions, reject violence and hate speech ahead of the 2027 polls.

“To political leaders, we call on you to de-escalate tensions, reject violence and hate speech,” he said.

Suleiman stressed that safeguarding democracy is a collective responsibility that cannot be left to politicians, government institutions or technology alone.

“The future of Nigerian democracy cannot be left to technology alone. It cannot be left to politicians alone. It cannot be left to government alone. Democracy is everybody’s business.”

He urged citizens to move from passive observation to active participation by demanding accountability for public projects, including roads, schools, healthcare facilities and water infrastructure.

“This is not about confrontation. It is about responsible citizenship and constructive accountability,” he added.

Also speaking, PUAN Secretary-General, Ambassador Prince Osa Osagie, said the organisation would deploy technology-driven platforms and polling unit representatives to strengthen election transparency and protect the integrity of the electoral process.

According to him, the initiative will debut during the Osun State election before being expanded nationwide.

“Our focus has always been on promoting the integrity of the polls. The people’s voice and the people’s choice count at the polling unit,” Osagie said.

He added that the technology would help expose electoral malpractice, including ballot box snatching and vote manipulation, while promoting credible elections across the country.