By Chimezie Godfrey
The Coalition for Protection of Democracy (COPDEM) has called on the National Judicial Council (NJC) and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to uphold their constitutional responsibilities with fairness and transparency, while urging an extension of the voter registration deadline to enable more eligible Nigerians to participate in the next general elections.
The coalition made the call in a statement issued on Monday by its National Chairman, Prince Rwang Pam Jnr., against the backdrop of recent judicial proceedings concerning the status of political parties and the public discourse that followed.
According to the statement, “The Coalition for Protection of Democracy (COPDEM) has observed with concern the recent judicial proceedings concerning the status of political parties in Nigeria and the ensuing public discourse.”
The group stressed that “a robust democracy rests on the independence of the judiciary, the impartiality of electoral bodies, and the unrestricted right of citizens to participate in the political process.”
It added, “We therefore urge all relevant institutions to uphold their constitutional mandates with fairness, transparency, and unwavering adherence to the rule of law.”
COPDEM specifically urged the National Judicial Council to sustain public confidence in the justice system.
”In particular, we call on the National Judicial Council (NJC) to sustain its commitment to the highest standards of judicial integrity and public confidence in the justice system. Any allegations of judicial misconduct must be promptly and thoroughly investigated through the appropriate constitutional channels,” the statement said.
The coalition also called on the Independent National Electoral Commission to continue discharging its responsibilities impartially.
”We equally urge the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to continue discharging its duties with strict impartiality, in full compliance with the Constitution and the Electoral Act, ensuring equal treatment for all eligible political parties and voters,” it stated.
On voter registration, COPDEM encouraged wider participation in the electoral process and appealed for a review of the current registration timeline.
”COPDEM further encourages all eligible Nigerians to register and participate actively in the democratic process.
”On the issue of voter registration timelines, we note the concerns raised by stakeholders regarding the current deadline. An extension of the registration period could enable more young Nigerians who turn 18 before the next general elections to exercise their franchise, while INEC balances this with necessary administrative and logistical preparations.
”We urge constructive engagement between stakeholders and INEC to address these concerns within the bounds of the law,” the coalition said.
The group further appealed to political stakeholders to remain committed to peace and due process.
”We call on all political actors, civil society organisations, security agencies, and citizens to respect lawful court decisions, uphold the rule of law, and ensure that any public actions or demonstrations remain peaceful and constitutionally compliant,” it said.
Emphasising the need to strengthen democratic institutions, the coalition stated: “Nigeria’s democracy is best strengthened when political disputes are resolved through due process, elections are conducted with credibility and integrity, and citizens can freely and peacefully exercise their democratic rights.”
It reaffirmed its commitment to democratic values, declaring, “COPDEM remains steadfast in its commitment to constitutional democracy, civic participation, accountability, and the peaceful resolution of political differences.”
COPDEM urges NJC, INEC to uphold rule of law, seeks extension of voter registration
