Northern Pulse

By Perpetua Onuegbu

A coalition of Nigerian civil society organisations (CSOs) has called on political leaders to prioritise the welfare of citizens.

The coalition, made of no fewer than 50 groups, made the called in a joint statement issued in Abuja on Tuesday.

The CSOs, while raising concern over the state of the nation, stressed the need for responsible leadership and collective national action.

They highlighted eight critical areas of concern, including escalating insecurity, widespread banditry and a growing kidnapping epidemic.

The CSOs noted that some communities in parts of the North and Middle Belt had been displaced, while criminal activities had disrupted agriculture, worsened food shortages and driven inflation upward.

They also expressed concern over the state of Nigeria’s democracy, ahead of the 2027 elections, stating that political actors were more focused on succession battles than addressing pressing national issues.

The coalition equally criticised the judiciary, alleging political interference and delays which, it said, had eroded public trust.

To address these issues, it outlined a series of demands, including translating government revenues into tangible benefits such as job creation, affordable healthcare and food security.

It also called for improved security coordination, decisive action against corruption, protection of civil liberties and urgent reforms to safeguard electoral integrity.

The CSOs further urged government to restore confidence in the judiciary by ensuring its independence and delivering timely justice.

“Every Naira of public money must be felt in the life of the ordinary citizen; anything less is betrayal,” the group stated.

The CSOs, however, reaffirmed their commitment to advocating for justice, equity and good governance, urging government to address the mounting socio-economic and political challenges facing the country.(NAN)