The Coalition for Protection of Democracy (COPDEM) has called for the protection of Nigeria’s democratic institutions, urging the judiciary, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and other stakeholders to uphold the rule of law, transparency and constitutional principles amid recent judicial proceedings involving the status of political parties.
According to an official signed statement by the National Chairman of the Coalition for Protection of Democracy (COPDEM), Prince Rwang Pam Jnr., the organisation expressed concern over recent judicial proceedings and the public discourse that has followed, stressing that a robust democracy depends on an independent judiciary, impartial electoral institutions and the unrestricted participation of citizens in the political process.
The coalition urged all relevant institutions to discharge their constitutional responsibilities with fairness, transparency and strict adherence to the rule of law.
COPDEM specifically called on the National Judicial Council (NJC) to sustain its commitment to maintaining the highest standards of judicial integrity and public confidence in the justice system. It added that any allegations of judicial misconduct should be investigated promptly and thoroughly through established constitutional procedures.
The organisation also urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to continue performing its responsibilities with impartiality and in full compliance with the Constitution and the Electoral Act, ensuring equal treatment for all eligible political parties and voters.
The coalition encouraged eligible Nigerians to actively participate in the democratic process by registering to vote and exercising their civic responsibilities during elections.
On voter registration, COPDEM acknowledged concerns raised by stakeholders over the current registration deadline, noting that extending the exercise could enable more young Nigerians who attain the age of 18 before the next general elections to register and participate in the electoral process, while recognising the need for INEC to balance such considerations with administrative and logistical requirements.
The organisation called for constructive engagement between stakeholders and INEC to address the issue within the framework of the law.
COPDEM further appealed to political actors, civil society organisations, security agencies and citizens to respect lawful court decisions and ensure that all public demonstrations and political activities remain peaceful and in accordance with the Constitution.
The coalition reaffirmed its commitment to constitutional democracy, civic participation, accountability and the peaceful resolution of political disagreements, maintaining that Nigeria’s democratic system is strengthened when political disputes are resolved through due process, elections are conducted with credibility and citizens freely exercise their democratic rights.
