Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar on Tuesday raised alarm over what he described as an existential threat to Nigeria’s democracy, accusing President Bola Tinubu’s administration of deliberately weakening opposition parties and shrinking democratic space in ways that could lead to a one-party state.
In a statement signed by his spokesman, Paul Ibe, Atiku said Nigerians have endured nearly three years of economic hardship under Tinubu’s government, alongside policies and political actions that undermine democratic values.
According to him, the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has combined harsh economic measures with political manoeuvres aimed at eliminating viable opposition, leaving the party dominant “by default, not by merit.”
Atiku described the erosion of opposition platforms as one of the most troubling developments under the current administration.
“The systematic weakening of opposition platforms represents a grave danger to Nigeria’s democratic future,” he said.
He noted that patriotic leaders had earlier rallied around the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as a platform for national rescue, but alleged that forces aligned with the Presidency were now attempting to destabilise the party by interfering in its internal affairs.
Responding to calls for him to step aside, Atiku dismissed such demands as anti-democratic and subtle attempts to weaken the opposition.
“Any call, overt or covert, for me to step aside is a betrayal of democratic choice and a disservice to the Nigerian people,” the statement read.
Atiku reaffirmed that the ADC remains committed to transparent and competitive processes in selecting its presidential candidate, stressing that external actors have no right to intimidate or sabotage the party. He said the party’s immediate focus is on strengthening grassroots structures across wards, local governments, and states.
He also welcomed the recent declaration of ADC membership by former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, describing it as politically significant, particularly in the Southeast. Atiku claimed Obi’s move unsettled the ruling party, citing boasts by a serving minister and presidential aides about plans to undermine the ADC.
“The panic is evident. The rising acceptance of the ADC as a credible alternative has unsettled those who benefit from the status quo,” he said.
In a pointed remark, Atiku argued that if anyone should step aside in the national interest, it should be President Tinubu, whom he described as a growing liability amid worsening economic conditions and public frustration.
He concluded by vowing that the ADC would resist intimidation and sabotage, insisting that Nigeria’s democracy would not be surrendered without a fight.
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