Nigeria’s democracy faces an existential threat, according to former vice president Atiku Abubakar, who has accused President Bola Tinubu’s administration of purposefully undermining opposition parties and reducing democratic space in a way that could result in a de facto one-party state.

In a statement signed by Paul Ibe, his spokesperson, Atiku claimed that the Tinubu-led government has caused Nigerians to suffer from severe economic hardship for almost three years, along with political actions and policies that he said go against democratic principles.

He claims that the All Progressives Congress (APC), which is currently in power, has adopted a calculated strategy that combines harsh economic decisions with political maneuvers intended to eliminate viable opposition, leaving the APC dominant “by default, not by merit.”

One of the most concerning developments under the current administration, according to Atiku, is the persistent decline of opposition parties. He emphasized that democracy cannot endure without robust and reliable political alternatives.

“The systematic weakening of opposition platforms represents a grave danger to Nigeria’s democratic future,” he said, adding that patriotic leaders identified the danger early and rallied around the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as a platform for national rescue.Nigerian Travel Packages

The former vice president alleged that forces aligned with the Presidency are now attempting to destabilise the ADC by interfering in its internal affairs, particularly through public pressure and speculation over the party’s choice of presidential candidate.

Reacting to calls in some quarters for him to step aside, Atiku dismissed such demands as irresponsible and anti-democratic, describing them as subtle attempts to weaken the opposition and advance authoritarian interests.

“Atiku Abubakar, alongside other committed patriots, is central to this rescue mission. Any call, overt or covert, for him to step aside is a betrayal of democratic choice and a disservice to the Nigerian people,” the statement said.

He reaffirmed that the ADC remains committed to an open, transparent and competitive process in selecting its presidential flagbearer, insisting that no external actor has the standing to intimidate, blackmail or sabotage the party.

Atiku said the party’s immediate focus is on strengthening its grassroots presence, with ongoing efforts to build solid ward, local government and state structures across the country.

He added that the ADC remains open to all genuine opposition figures, describing inclusiveness as the essence of democracy, and assured that when the time comes, all qualified aspirants would be free to contest without pressure or coercion.

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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 national liability amid worsening economic conditions and rising public frustration.

He also referenced the recent public declaration of ADC membership by former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi in Enugu, describing the move as politically significant, particularly in the Southeast.

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According to Atiku, Obi’s declaration triggered open boasts by a serving minister and presidential aides about plans to undermine the ADC, saying such reactions exposed fear within the ruling party.

“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.

He concluded by vowing that the ADC would resist intimidation, intrigue and sabotage, insisting that Nigeria would not surrender its democracy without a fight.