Human rights lawyer Femi Falana (SAN) calls on Nigeria’s religious bodies to stop remaining passive and take an active role in safeguarding democracy as the country prepares for the 2027 general elections. He delivers the message at the 25th Mike Okonkwo Annual Lecture in Lagos, speaking on “Democracy at the Crossroads: Electoral Credibility, Judicial Integrity and the Future of Nigeria.”
Both outlets report that Falana warns churches and mosques against limiting their work to spiritual activities, arguing that democracy involves more than elections. He says religious leaders should engage in issues affecting citizens’ welfare, including how public resources are managed. Falana also urges them to scrutinize government budgets, monitor how projects are implemented, and demand accountability from public officials.
While the two accounts are closely aligned, they emphasize slightly different framing: one highlights Falana’s broader appeal for religious groups to “save Nigeria’s democracy,” and the other stresses that democracy depends on accountable leadership, effective public service, citizens’ welfare, and security—not only electoral processes.
