Akume Urges Action Against Electoral Corruption in Nigeria

On Thursday, Georg Akume, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, expressed concerns regarding persistent electoral corruption in Nigeria, which undermines public confidence in the democratic process. Speaking at a conference in Abuja to mark the 2026 Democracy Day, Akume acknowledged Nigeria's notable democratic progress since the return to civilian rule in 1999, including the successful conduct of eight consecutive general elections and peaceful power transitions.

However, he cautioned that issues of electoral integrity continue to threaten democratic consolidation, as allegations of corrupt electoral processes persist. Akume stressed that democracy extends beyond voting and that every vote must carry equal weight.

He called for stronger efforts to address electoral malpractice and warned against allowing ethnic, religious, and regional divisions to weaken national unity. Akume highlighted key achievements of the democratic government, including economic growth and major infrastructure projects, while reiterating the need for sustained reforms to enhance transparency and accountability in Nigeria's democratic processes.