The Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) and Search for Common Ground (SFCG) have called for intensified efforts to tackle the underlying causes of conflict threatening Nigeria’s democratic stability.
The appeal was made on Thursday in Abuja during a joint press briefing held to commemorate the 2026 Democracy Day celebration.
Director-General of IPCR, Dr. Joseph Ochogwu, described democracy as the most effective system of governance, stressing that its success depends largely on active citizen participation.
He noted that weak civic engagement, voter apathy and a poor democratic culture continue to hinder the consolidation of democracy in Nigeria.
According to him, findings from IPCR’s conflict assessments indicate that many of the pressures facing democracy are linked more to citizen disengagement than to flaws in the democratic system itself.
He urged Nigerians, particularly young people, to take a more active role in elections and governance processes.
Ochogwu warned that electoral violence, voter intimidation and coercive political practices remain significant threats to democratic development. He called on political actors, electoral bodies, security agencies, the media and civil society organisations to work collectively toward promoting peaceful political participation.
He also expressed concern over the growing monetisation of politics, saying it limits opportunities for ordinary citizens to engage meaningfully in governance.
The IPCR chief further identified terrorism, banditry, organised crime and violent extremism as major challenges weakening governance structures and eroding public trust in institutions.
Responding to questions from journalists, Ochogwu expressed confidence that insecurity would not prevent the conduct of the 2027 general elections, urging Nigerians to remain hopeful and continue supporting democratic processes.
Also speaking, SFCG Director of Programmes, Mrs. Gift Omoniwa, said safeguarding democracy requires addressing insecurity and the factors fueling conflict across the country. She noted that banditry, kidnapping and violent extremism continue to pose serious threats to peace, stability and democratic governance.
Omoniwa advocated inclusive strategies that address the root causes of conflict and foster peaceful coexistence.
She warned that vulnerable youths remain susceptible to recruitment by violent groups, creating risks for national security and democratic development.
She called for increased youth empowerment, expanded economic opportunities and greater inclusion of young people in governance.
Omoniwa disclosed that SFCG and IPCR recently conducted conflict assessments in Benue, Nasarawa, Plateau and Taraba states, with findings being shared among stakeholders to support evidence-based interventions.
According to her, planned interventions include strengthening early warning systems, peace committees and livelihood support programmes in affected communities.
She expressed optimism that these measures would contribute to peaceful and credible elections in 2027.
Omoniwa reaffirmed SFCG’s commitment to collaborating with government institutions, civil society organisations and local communities to advance peacebuilding and democratic governance in Nigeria.