Nigeria Faces Crisis as Experts Warn of Instability

On June 8, 2026, seven prominent Nigerians, including former Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Prof. Attahiru Jega and former Chief of Staff to the President Prof.

Ibrahim Gambari, issued a statement expressing grave concerns about Nigeria's precarious situation. They highlighted the convergence of multiple challenges, including rising insecurity, electoral manipulation, and the weakening of democratic institutions, which threaten the country's stability and survival.

The group described the erosion of constitutional principles and the increasing subordination of the legislative and judicial branches to the executive, leading to a loss of independence and integrity within the judiciary. They noted that public distrust is growing, contributing to political exclusion and insecurity.

The statement also linked Nigeria's security challenges to the broader instability in the Sahel region, citing issues such as terrorism and arms trafficking. The group urged the federal government to appoint a special envoy for the Sahel and called for civil society, professional bodies, and religious leaders to defend democratic values and ensure the integrity of the electoral process for the 2027 general elections.