By Eunice Orike
Former Senate President Adolphus Wabara and former Action Congress vice-presidential candidate Ben Obi have held consultations with Nigerians in the diaspora in the United States as part of efforts to promote credible elections and strengthen democracy ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking with journalists, Wabara said the discussions brought together Nigerians from different political backgrounds and focused on ways to protect democratic institutions and preserve the country’s multi-party system.
Wabara, who also chairs the Board of Trustees of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), explained that the meetings were driven by concerns about the state of Nigeria’s democracy and the need for citizens to play a greater role in defending constitutional governance.
Participants reportedly expressed worry over what they described as growing pressure on opposition parties, declining public confidence in the neutrality of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and increasing threats to democratic values.
According to Wabara, the consultations aimed to build a broad national consensus on improving the electoral process and ensuring that voters’ wishes are reflected in the outcome of the 2027 elections. He warned that Nigeria’s democracy faces serious challenges, describing the situation as critical and requiring urgent attention.
He stressed that stronger institutions and credible elections are necessary to protect the country’s future and restore public confidence in governance. Wabara also called on opposition parties, civil society groups, professional bodies, youth and women organisations, and other stakeholders to work together in the national interest to strengthen democracy.
He urged eligible Nigerians to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) before the July 10 deadline, noting that active citizen participation remains one of the most effective ways to ensure transparent and credible elections.
