The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to take bold steps to strengthen Nigeria’s democracy by addressing the impunity surrounding the annulled June 12, 1993 presidential election and ensuring transparency in future polls through mandatory electronic transmission of election results.
In a letter dated June 14, 2025, signed by SERAP Deputy Director Kolawole Oluwadare, the organization urged President Tinubu to set up a presidential panel of inquiry to investigate the unlawful annulment of the historic election and identify those responsible for violating Nigerians’ democratic rights.
“The ideals of June 12 cannot be realized without electoral accountability, human rights reforms, and strict adherence to the rule of law,” SERAP stated.
Key Demands from SERAP to the President:
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Investigate the June 12 Annulment: Establish a panel to uncover the truth behind the 1993 election cancellation and hold those responsible accountable, irrespective of their political affiliation or status.
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Mandate E-Transmission of Election Results: Direct the Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, to propose amendments to the Electoral Act 2022, making the electronic transfer of results compulsory and granting voters access to all election documents.
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Discontinue Unjust Prosecutions: Order an immediate halt to all legal proceedings against Nigerians facing charges for peacefully exercising their human rights, especially during protests.
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Amend Anti-Free Speech Laws: Review and reform laws such as the Cybercrimes Act, criminal defamation, and injurious falsehood provisions in the Criminal and Penal Codes to align with constitutional rights and international obligations.
SERAP’s Position on Democratic Accountability
SERAP reminded President Tinubu of his Democracy Day address, where he committed to the ideals of freedom, justice, accountable governance, and civic participation. However, the organization emphasized that these commitments must go beyond words.
“Expressed commitments are not enough. Your government must show the political will to end impunity for the June 12 annulment and protect Nigerians’ democratic freedoms,” the letter stated.
SERAP stressed that no statute of limitations applies to violations of democratic rights, and that impunity for the 1993 annulment continues to undermine Nigeria’s electoral integrity.
Need for Electoral Reforms
SERAP specifically criticized Section 74(1) of the Electoral Act, which restricts access to election documents to only parties in election petitions. The organization argues this clause should be amended to empower every voter with the right to access election data, promoting transparency and trust in the democratic process.
Additionally, SERAP raised concerns about the ongoing use of strategic lawsuits against public participation (SLAPPs) and repressive laws targeting journalists, activists, and ordinary citizens.
“Journalists and citizens must not be punished for peacefully expressing their views. A thriving democracy depends on freedom of speech and civil liberties,” the organization added.
A Seven-Day Ultimatum
SERAP concluded its letter with a seven-day deadline, urging Tinubu to take immediate action. Failing this, the organization vowed to consider appropriate legal steps to compel compliance in the public interest.
Why This Matters
This call by SERAP comes at a crucial time in Nigeria’s democratic evolution, as citizens continue to demand credible elections, justice for past wrongs, and greater transparency from public institutions. If implemented, the recommended reforms could mark a turning point in addressing decades of impunity and electoral malpractice.
