By George Ozalla
Former National Chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), Peter Ameh, has called on the United States to ensure that its proposed monitoring of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections extends beyond election day to cover the entire electoral process, stressing that sustained international engagement is crucial to safeguarding the country’s democracy.
Reacting to the United States’ expressed intention to monitor Nigeria’s 2027 general elections, Ameh described the development as a significant step in international engagement with Nigeria’s democratic process. He, however, cautioned that the initiative would only be meaningful if it is backed by concrete and sustained actions rather than remaining at the level of diplomatic pronouncements or media statements.
According to him, election observation that focuses solely on polling day would be inadequate to address the deeper issues capable of undermining the credibility of the elections.
Ameh maintained that the pre-election period requires close international scrutiny, noting that the political environment leading to the polls is just as important as activities on election day.
He alleged that reported oppressive actions by the executive arm of government and its proxies have continued to undermine the ability of opposition political parties to freely organise, express their views and participate fully in the democratic process.
He argued that any international monitoring effort that overlooks developments before the elections risks legitimising flawed electoral processes instead of promoting credible democratic outcomes.
The former IPAC National Chairman further stated that the survival and consolidation of Nigeria’s democracy depend largely on the conduct of peaceful, free and fair elections whose outcomes genuinely reflect the will of the electorate.
He stressed that transparent monitoring of every stage of the electoral cycle, while respecting Nigeria’s sovereignty, remains essential to strengthening democratic institutions and public confidence in the electoral process.
Ameh observed that although Nigerians bear the primary responsibility for protecting and strengthening their democracy, international partners with considerable influence also have a legitimate role in promoting democratic accountability by drawing attention to actions capable of weakening democratic norms.
He further stated that the United States, given its global influence and diplomatic leverage, has the capacity to support credible elections if it demonstrates sincerity of purpose and sustained commitment.
Ameh alleged that the current administration has shown little willingness to allow opposition political parties to operate freely without interference, urging the United States and other international partners to begin meaningful engagement well ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He advised the international community to consistently raise concerns where necessary, engage relevant Nigerian stakeholders and apply appropriate diplomatic pressure to encourage adherence to democratic principles.
According to him, decisions taken or ignored in the months and years preceding the elections would significantly influence the credibility and outcome of the polls.
Ameh explained that credible elections in Nigeria are not only vital to the country’s democratic development but also contribute to regional stability and strengthen democratic governance across Africa.
He urged the United States to move beyond declarations and commit to robust, sustained and principled engagement that prioritises the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral process throughout the entire election timeline.
