We state unequivocally that democracy cannot survive where the will of the people is weakened or subjected to political manoeuvring. In every true democracy, elected representatives are servants of the people, not their masters. The Senate has no reason but to do the bidding of their constituents—those who hired and entrusted them to legislate in their name. Public office is a sacred duty to defend the people’s sovereignty, not a platform for self-interest or an elite club detached from citizens’ realities.

The Nigerian Senate’s current posturing and political ambiguity in response to a simple, straightforward request from the Nigerian people constitute a serious threat to democracy, which is inseparably linked to development, stability, and social progress. When democratic institutions falter, it is working people who bear the heaviest burden—through instability, weakened protections, and erosion of rights. The signals emerging from the Senate risk deepening distrust in democratic processes, undermining universal suffrage, and weakening confidence that every vote counts and is seen to count.

At this critical moment, electoral reform must strengthen democracy from within—promoting transparency, accountability, and credibility—not produce systems that are exclusionary, rudderless, or regressive. The Senate cannot speak for itself while claiming to represent the people; it must act in fidelity to the democratic mandate granted by citizens.

ITUC-Africa calls on the Nigerian Senate and its House of Representatives counterpart to act decisively, restore public trust, and ensure reforms that safeguard the sovereignty of the Nigerian people. The future of democracy, and the rights and progress of workers, depend on it.

Issued on the 11th Day of February 2026 in Lome, Togo
Akhator Joel ODIGIE General Secretary