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A new coalition named Save Democracy Mega Alliance 2027 (SDMA’27) has kicked off a campaign to amend Nigeria’s Constitution with the aim of curbing presidential influence over the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and state governors’ control over State Independent Electoral Commissions (SIECs).
The coalition seeks to transfer the appointment powers of INEC and SIEC heads to an independent body, thereby reducing executive interference in the electoral and judicial processes.
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At a press conference in Abuja, spokesperson Comrade Tony Akeni Le Moin detailed the coalition’s plans for a nationwide launch, culminating in a major event in Abuja dubbed a “boot camp.”
He emphasized the coalition’s commitment to two key amendments: removing the appointment powers from the president and governors and assigning these responsibilities to a non-partisan group of vetted individuals of integrity.
The initiative has gained support from various prominent leaders and pro-democracy organizations across Nigeria.
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Among its supporters is Professor Pat Utomi, a noted political economist, who hailed the movement as a crucial advancement for Nigeria’s democracy since 1999.
He referenced the Justice Uwais Electoral Reform report, which also advocated for reforms to diminish executive influence over INEC and the judiciary, arguing that such changes are vital for ensuring free and fair elections.
SDMA’27 outlined a three-point strategy that includes building national consensus among political, religious, and civil society groups to foster a collective push for constitutional reform.
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The coalition aims to gain traction for a National Conference to formally propose these amendments and to lobby the National and State Assemblies to eliminate executive control over INEC and the judiciary.
The group urged citizens to take action, warning that without these reforms, the upcoming 2027 elections could mirror previous electoral frauds.
They invoked the words of Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. to call for organized resistance, framing the current situation as a “national emergency” that necessitates action to restore democracy in Nigeria.
