By Mary Emeka
The Christian Social Movement of Nigeria (CSMN) has urged the Federal Government to urgently restore security in conflict-affected communities ahead of the 2027 general elections, warning that displaced Nigerians must not be excluded from the democratic process.
The Chairman of the CSMN Governing Council, Elder Sunday Oibe, made the call at a press briefing on the state of the nation, security, governance and the 2027 elections, held under the theme, “Nigeria at Another Crossroad.”
Oibe said the continued activities of Boko Haram, ISWAP, bandits and other armed groups remained a serious threat to national stability, describing the killing of innocent Nigerians as a national tragedy.
He condoled with families who have lost loved ones to terrorism, banditry and kidnapping, while warning that insecurity, poverty and growing distrust in the electoral process could undermine democratic participation in 2027.
“If large numbers of Nigerians in parts of North-East, North-West and North Central are unable to return safely to their homes, how can they freely participate in 2027 elections?” he queried.
The group therefore called on the Federal Government to secure affected communities before the elections, stressing that citizens must be able to register and vote without fear or intimidation.
Oibe also demanded greater accountability over public expenditure, particularly the N17.5 trillion reflected in the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited’s 2024 accounts as energy security costs.
He said the government owed Nigerians a clear explanation of the expenditure, amid widespread concerns over the cost of living, unemployment and insecurity.
On constitutional reform, the CSMN chairman argued that the 1999 Constitution had failed to adequately address Nigeria’s federal realities, backing dialogue on the principles that underpinned the 1963 Republican Constitution.
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He also raised concerns over provisions of the Electoral Act 2026, particularly Section 138, which he said limited the grounds for challenging election results.
According to him, the provision requires broader national debate if confidence in the electoral process is to be strengthened.
“No democracy should create perception that questions concerning qualifications or integrity of candidates cannot receive effective judicial scrutiny,” Oibe said.
Citing Section 14(2)(b) of the Constitution, which provides that the security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government, he said Nigerians were currently confronted with insecurity, high living costs and unemployment.
Oibe also referenced a World Bank assessment that about 61 per cent of Nigerians are living below the poverty line.
On religion and governance, the CSMN expressed concern over the continuation of a Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket in a religiously diverse country, urging government to demonstrate equal consideration for citizens of all faiths.
The group further called on the Nigerian Church to end political fragmentation and develop a coordinated strategy ahead of the 2027 elections.
It said it would commence consultations with Christian presidential aspirants as part of efforts to build political consensus, while urging the United States, European Union and United Kingdom to pay close attention to Nigeria’s 2027 electoral process.
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The CSMN also aligned itself with the position of the National Christian Elders Forum that President Bola Tinubu should not seek a second term, citing concerns over insecurity, economic hardship and accountability.
It urged the President to use the remainder of his tenure to strengthen institutions, facilitate constitutional reform and improve national security.