By Micael Omotosho |
The Tap Initiative for Citizens’ Development has called for stronger democratic institutions, meaningful citizen participation and the protection of civic space in Nigeria.
The organisation made the call in a statement to mark the International Day of Democracy 2026, observed on September 15.
Tap Initiative said democracy should not be limited to elections, noting that citizens must also be able to participate in public affairs, exercise their rights, demand accountability and have their voices heard in decisions that affect them.
The United Nations General Assembly, through Resolution A/RES/62/7, designated September 15 as the International Day of Democracy to promote and uphold the principles of democracy.
Democracy Beyond Elections
Reflecting on Nigeria’s democratic journey, Tap Initiative said the country has experienced mistrust in institutions, contested processes and gaps in accountability, but added that citizens have continued to show determination to shape the country’s future.
“Democratic consolidation, however, requires more than periodic elections. It requires institutions that are independent, transparent and accountable; elections in which every vote and voter are protected; a judiciary capable of safeguarding rights; a legislature that effectively represents the people; and an environment in which citizens, journalists, civil society organisations and civic actors can speak, organise and participate without fear or undue restriction,” the organisation said.
The organisation said freedom of expression, peaceful assembly and association, access to information, equality before the law and access to justice are important to a functioning democracy.
It said it was concerned about developments that could weaken civic participation, affect institutional accountability or make it difficult for people to exercise their fundamental freedoms.
“A democracy cannot be considered healthy where citizens are encouraged to vote but discouraged from asking questions, demanding accountability or participating in public affairs between elections,” Tap Initiative said.
Young People and Democracy
Tap Initiative also drew attention to the role of young people in Nigeria’s democratic process.
It said young Nigerians should not only be seen during election periods when political mobilisation takes place, but should also have opportunities to participate in policymaking, governance, community development and public accountability.
“Young Nigerians are not merely future participants in democracy; they are citizens and stakeholders in democracy today. Their participation must extend beyond political mobilisation during election periods to meaningful engagement in policy-making, governance, community development and public accountability,” it said.
Call for Stronger Institutions
The organisation called on government and public institutions to protect civic space, uphold fundamental rights and ensure transparency and accountability in the exercise of public power.
It also called on electoral institutions and political actors to strengthen electoral integrity and ensure that citizens can participate freely and safely throughout the electoral process.
Tap Initiative urged the judiciary and other accountability institutions to remain independent, accessible and responsive to violations of rights and abuses of public power.
Political parties and elected representatives were also asked to deepen internal democracy, representation and engagement with citizens.
The organisation further encouraged citizens and civil society organisations to continue demanding accountable governance and taking part in democratic processes.
“Democracy must ultimately be judged by what it delivers for the people: freedom, dignity, equality, justice, participation and accountable government,” Tap Initiative said.
The organisation reaffirmed its commitment to a Nigeria where citizens are not merely spectators of governance or participants at the ballot box, but active rights-holders whose voices matter in decisions that shape their present and future.
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