The Kimpact Development Initiative has launched a new digital platform designed to track human rights abuses, electoral violence and restrictions on civic participation across Nigeria.
The platform, known as Naija Civic Space, was unveiled in Abuja under the Building Resilient Spaces project as part of efforts to strengthen democratic accountability, improve citizen participation and encourage timely reporting of violations.
Speaking at the launch, Executive Director of KDI, Bukola Idowu, said the platform would provide citizens, civil society organisations and election observers with a secure channel to document incidents such as intimidation, harassment, voter suppression and abuse of power.
According to him, the initiative is intended to improve transparency and ensure that cases of rights violations are properly documented and not ignored.
Idowu raised concerns over reports of violence and intimidation allegedly recorded during ongoing political party primaries in parts of the country. He noted that incidents involving gunshots, threats against aspirants and misuse of state institutions often go undocumented or unresolved.
He stressed that strengthening civic space is essential to protecting democracy and ensuring citizens can freely participate in political processes without fear.
The platform is also expected to serve as a data hub for advocacy groups, policy makers and international partners working to promote electoral integrity and good governance in Nigeria.
Governance Adviser at the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, Mathew Ayibakubo, described the initiative as an important step toward encouraging responsive leadership and safeguarding citizens’ rights.
He said protecting freedoms of expression, association and political participation remains vital for strengthening democratic institutions and public trust in governance.
