The Afenifere Diaspora USA has faulted the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) over what it described as worsening insecurity and controversial electoral law changes in Nigeria.
In a statement issued on Friday and signed by its Chairman, Sikiru Fadairo, and Secretary, David Adenekan, the group warned that the escalating security crisis could push the country toward sectarian conflict if not urgently addressed.
The group emphasised that national security remains a core responsibility of government, citing Section 14(2)(b) of the 1999 Constitution, which states that the welfare and security of citizens are paramount. It also referenced constitutional provisions guaranteeing fundamental human rights, including the right to life, dignity, liberty, and privacy.
Afenifere Diaspora USA condemned the wave of violence attributed to armed groups such as Lakurawa, Ansaru, and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), as well as Fulani militant factions. The group highlighted recent attacks in Borno State, where insurgents reportedly overran several military formations in communities including Delwa, Goniri, Kukawa, and Mainok, resulting in significant casualties and abductions.
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Raising concerns over the scale of violence, the group questioned whether the killings and displacement of communities could amount to genocide or ethnic cleansing.
It also criticised the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, accusing it of downplaying the severity of the crisis and allegedly spending public funds to influence international narratives about insecurity in Nigeria.
On electoral matters, the group opposed reported moves by the National Assembly to remove the requirement for candidates to possess at least a secondary school certificate to contest the presidency. It described the development as a threat to democratic standards and an attempt to lower leadership qualifications.
Citing Section 131 of the Constitution, the group reiterated that presidential candidates must meet minimum educational requirements, warning that any attempt to alter this standard could undermine governance in a modern, knowledge-driven world.
Furthermore, Afenifere Diaspora USA called for mandatory electronic transmission of election results in real time, insisting that credible, transparent elections are essential to strengthening Nigeria’s democracy.
The group concluded by stressing that a free and fair 2027 general election remains non-negotiable and critical to ensuring good governance in the country.
