Business leader and founder of Stanbic IBTC Bank, Atedo Peterside, has endorsed the civic advocacy platform GoNigeria, identifying four pillars he says are essential to sustaining Nigeria’s democracy: electoral reform, judicial reform, freedom of speech, and the security of life and property.
In a post on his X (formerly Twitter) account on Tuesday, Peterside emphasized electoral reform as the most critical of the four. He noted that credible elections not only select leaders but also determine whether power is accepted as legitimate, institutions are trusted, and governance is effective.
The statement aligns with GoNigeria’s advocacy, which highlights the urgent need for electoral reforms to safeguard Nigeria’s democratic future. The group cited recommendations from the Mohammed Uwais-led electoral reform committee, including the independence of the electoral body, transparency in processes, credible dispute resolution, and strict enforcement of electoral laws.
GoNigeria also pointed to technological measures introduced in previous reforms—such as biometric voter registration, Permanent Voters’ Cards, and electronic accreditation—as tools to enhance transparency and public confidence. However, the group noted that trust in the electoral system has declined since the 2019 and 2023 elections, particularly in the South-South and South-East, and among young Nigerians aged 18–35, with nearly three-quarters expressing low confidence in free and fair elections.
The platform warned that a weak electoral system could lead to violence, unaccountable leadership, and weakened institutions. It urged clear guidelines, stronger safeguards, and improved transparency, especially regarding the discretionary powers of electoral officials during network failures and manual result transmission.
Following the recent assent of the Electoral Act 2026, GoNigeria called for its effective implementation, increased public engagement, and rebuilding trust in the electoral process. The statement was endorsed by prominent Nigerians, including Aisha Yesufu, Arunma Oteh, Matthew Kukah, Muhammadu Sanusi II, and Folarin Falana.
