Punch Get-together: Shettima Harps On Human Rights For Credible 2027 Elections

NEWDAILYNIGERIA: The Convener of the Northern Stakeholders Consultative Initiative, Ambassador Yerima Usman Shettima, has emphasized on the protection of human rights in strengthening Nigeria’s democratic process ahead of the 2027 general elections.

He maintained that only when the rights for free speech and association among others are strictly adhered to, only then can the nation’s electoral and democratic experience be sustained and enhanced.

While delivering his keynote address at the North Regional Annual Get-Together of PUNCH Newspapers in Kaduna, the Convener of the Northern Stakeholders Consultative Initiative, Ambassador Yerima Usman Shettima, represented by Dr. Bashir Umar Mohammed, underscored the inseparable link between human rights and democratic credibility.

Speaking on the theme, “Human Rights and Their Role in Strengthening Nigeria’s Democratic Process Ahead of the 2027 Elections,” Shettima noted that democracy cannot thrive in an environment where citizens’ rights are undermined.

“Human rights are not a luxury; they are the very air that democracy breathes,” he stated, adding that the integrity of elections depends not just on voting processes but on freedoms such as speech, assembly, and protection from fear.

He warned that without safeguarding these rights, the 2027 elections risk becoming “a mere ritual rather than a true expression of the will of the people.”

The address identified key concerns around Nigeria’s electoral framework, particularly ongoing discussions on Electoral Act amendments, noting that issues such as transparency, voter security, and credible result collation are fundamentally human rights matters.

Shettima further pointed to insecurity and economic hardship in parts of Northern Nigeria as factors that could compromise democratic participation, stressing that the protection of lives and property remains the most fundamental right.

While acknowledging efforts by the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to stabilize the country, he called for sustained commitment to securing citizens and strengthening democratic institutions.

He also charged stakeholders in the region to act as “guardians of the civic space,” urging them to resist attempts to suppress the media or undermine judicial independence.

“A free press remains the light that shows the potholes on the road to progress, while an independent judiciary is the scale that balances the rights of the state and the individual,” he said.

On inclusion, the keynote emphasized the need to amplify the voices of women and youth in the political process, describing proposals such as the Special Seats Bill for women as a “human rights imperative.”

He cautioned against the exploitation of young people for political violence, urging their engagement as informed participants and future leaders.

“As the political temperature rises towards 2027, there will be attempts to divide citizens along ethnic and religious lines, but we must remember that the right you defend for your neighbour today will protect you tomorrow,” he added.

Earlier, the Regional Editor, North, PUNCH Newspapers, Mr. Juwe Oluwafemi, said the annual gathering provides a platform for reflection, professional bonding, and engagement on national issues affecting journalism and society.

He noted that the event, which brought together media practitioners, partners, and stakeholders, continues to strengthen collaboration within the industry while promoting discussions on democracy and governance.

The event also featured a presentation by former Kaduna Central Senator, Shehu Sani, who spoke on “Freedom of Expression and the Role of the Media in Safeguarding Nigeria’s Democracy Ahead of the 2027 Elections.”

Participants at the gathering called for collective action to ensure that the 2027 elections mark a significant step forward in Nigeria’s democratic journey.