The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, has raised concerns over persistent allegations of corruption in Nigeria’s electoral system, warning that they continue to erode public trust in the country’s democratic process.
Akume made the remarks on Thursday while delivering a lecture at the State House Conference Centre as part of activities marking the 2026 Democracy Day celebration.
Speaking on the theme, “27 Years of Democratic Governance: Achievements, Challenges and the Road Ahead,” the SGF acknowledged Nigeria’s democratic progress since the return to civilian rule in 1999 but stressed that electoral integrity remains a major challenge.
According to him, recurring allegations of corruption in the electoral process continue to weaken citizens’ confidence in elections and democratic institutions.
“Electoral integrity remains a work in progress. While our electoral management body and the judiciary have shown increasing independence, persistent allegations of corruption in the electoral system remain a major concern,” Akume stated.
He emphasised that democracy goes beyond casting votes, stressing the need for confidence in a system where every vote carries equal value.
“Democracy is not merely the act of voting; it is the assurance that every vote counts equally,” he added.
Akume urged Nigerians to actively participate in strengthening democratic institutions and protecting the country’s democratic achievements.
He also highlighted some gains recorded under democratic governance, including reforms in the power sector and improved access to education and healthcare through initiatives such as the National Health Insurance Scheme, the Universal Basic Education Programme, and the Nigerian Education Loan Fund.
Describing the Democracy Day lecture as a moment for national reflection, the SGF challenged citizens to consider the kind of democracy Nigeria hopes to build over the next 27 years.
His comments come amid renewed debates over electoral malpractice, vote-buying, result manipulation, and other issues stakeholders say continue to affect the credibility of elections and public confidence in democratic institutions.
Political stakeholders, civil society groups, and election observers have continued to call for electoral reforms aimed at improving transparency, accountability, and trust in Nigeria’s democratic process.
Nigeria’s Democracy Worth Defending – SGF Akumehttps://t.co/hu3mBj3HVF pic.twitter.com/omJg47Dyuh
— TVC News (@tvcnewsng) June 11, 2026
Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, on Thursday declared that Nigeria’s democracy remains worth defending despite persistent challenges confronting the nation’s electoral and governance systems.https://t.co/TwkxDXa5KZ
— The Nation Nigeria (@TheNationNews) June 11, 2026
