The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria has raised concerns about the growing influence of state governors over political parties, warning that this trend could weaken internal democracy ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Governors' Dominance
In a statement issued on Monday, the group's National Coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko, said governors are increasingly dominating party structures at ward, local government, and state levels. This, he noted, is reshaping the political space and marginalizing ordinary party members.
Impact on Candidate Emergence
HURIWA highlighted that this development is affecting how candidates emerge for elections. The group fears that party primaries may no longer reflect the will of members but rather the preferences of a few powerful officeholders.
The organization described the situation as a serious threat to democratic practice, calling it a drift away from constitutional principles of participation and accountability.
"This is not democracy. This is political colonization," the group stated, emphasizing that the consolidation of power within a small political elite risks reducing voters to mere spectators in the electoral process.
Broader Implications
HURIWA argued that if governors are allowed to determine candidates for legislative and executive offices, it could weaken internal checks within parties. This could produce leaders who are more accountable to individuals than to the electorate.
The group also linked this trend to declining public trust in democratic institutions and increasing political tension across Nigeria. It noted that the weakening of party structures is occurring alongside insecurity, economic pressures, and institutional challenges, which compound governance difficulties.
"Governors are not kings. Political parties are not private estates. Nigeria is not a conquered territory," the statement read.
Call for Reforms
The organization called for urgent reforms to restore internal democracy within political parties. It insisted that credible primaries must be conducted without interference from political officeholders.
HURIWA urged the Independent National Electoral Commission to strengthen oversight of party processes and ensure compliance with democratic standards ahead of the 2027 elections.
The group also called on the National Assembly to consider laws that would discourage undue interference in party administration and strengthen accountability within the political system.
Appeal to Stakeholders
HURIWA appealed to civil society organizations, the media, and citizens to remain vigilant and actively resist any attempt to undermine democratic participation.
It warned that failure to address the growing influence of governors over party structures could distort the electoral process and weaken the credibility of future elections.
HURIWA said Nigeria must urgently reinforce internal party democracy to preserve the integrity of its democratic system and prevent a drift toward political capture.
