Civil society organizations (CSOs) play a foundational role in any democracy. They give ordinary citizens a voice, promote accountability, and serve as watchdogs over the institutions that wield power. In Nigeria, where governance challenges, widespread corruption, insecurity, and social inequalities remain pressing, CSOs are needed now more than ever. But for these organizations to truly fulfill their mandate, independence must not only be preserved but actively defended.
Why independence matters
The strength of civil society lies in its ability to speak truth to power. When CSOs operate freely, without fear or political interference, they can scrutinize government policies, expose abuses, advocate for marginalized communities, and demand transparency. Independence is therefore not just a structural requirement; it is the foundation of legitimacy.
When CSOs become dependent on or influenced by government officials, whether through funding, political affiliation, or subtle pressure, their credibility and effectiveness are immediately compromised. Instead of being watchdogs, they risk becoming megaphones for the very power structures they are meant to oversee.
The danger of being used by government officials
In recent years, concerns have grown about some Nigerian CSOs being co-opted by government actors. This often happens through:
Financial incentives disguised as “support” or “partnerships”.
Political patronage, where leaders of CSOs receive appointments, promises, or favors.
The sharing of pre-written press statements that CSOs are encouraged to publish as though they are independent analyses.
These practices erode the moral authority of civil society. When a CSO reproduces government press statements rather than issuing its own well-researched positions, it ceases to be a voice of the people and becomes an extension of the government’s public relations machinery. The public quickly sees through such practices, resulting in lost trust and weakened influence.
A call to be the voice of the voiceless
Nigeria has millions of citizens who lack platforms to express their struggles: rural communities without basic services, women facing systemic discrimination, victims of human rights abuses, young people battling unemployment, and marginalized groups excluded from decision-making.
CSOs were created to amplify these voices.
To reclaim this role, civil society must:
1. Reaffirm its independence by rejecting politically motivated funding or influence.
2. Develop strong internal governance structures that prevent capture by external actors.
3. Engage in evidence-based advocacy, relying on research, community consultations, and credible data.
4. Create and distribute their own press statements, not those crafted by government public relations units.
5. Build alliances with grassroots movements rather than aligning with political elites.
Rebuilding public trust
For Nigerian civil society to thrive, it must maintain a clear distance from political manipulation. Only then can it rebuild trust, attract genuine public support, and play its rightful role in national development.
The credibility of a CSO does not lie in its proximity to power, but in its courage to question power.
Conclusion
Nigeria’s democracy, still evolving and often fragile, needs independent CSOs that hold government accountable and defend the rights of citizens. When civil society chooses independence over influence, integrity over convenience, and truth over political pressure, it becomes a transformative force for justice and development.
The future of Nigeria rests not only in the hands of government institutions but also in the strength of its civil society. Independence is not optional; it is the lifeblood of meaningful advocacy.
Yankuzo is the Executive Director, Centre for Human Rights and Social Advancement (CEFSAN)
