As Nigeria marks its 64th Independence Anniversary, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has raised concerns about the state of democracy, warning that the country is on the verge of a one-party dictatorship.
Atiku, in a statement he personally signed yesterday, urged political elites to unite and defend the democratic process from slipping into authoritarianism
The presidential candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in the last election stated that Nigeria’s political atmosphere has become corrosive, with the ruling party allegedly manipulating internal processes to weaken opposition parties. He described the situation as a “troubling decline in electoral credibility,” lamenting that elections are increasingly being influenced by the ruling class’s whims.
He called on politicians and statesmen with integrity to step up and reclaim democracy from the encroaching shadows of oppression.
Atiku emphasised that while democracy has anchored institutions in the rule of law, Nigeria still struggles to achieve political inclusivity and ensure truly free and fair elections.
Atiku’s message also reflected on the country’s journey, stating that Nigeria’s independence was achieved through the collective efforts of the nation’s founding fathers. He appealed to the political elite to follow their example by working together to safeguard the nation’s democracy.
He urged leaders across party lines to form a credible opposition coalition that would steer the country towards a better future.
Atiku concluded by congratulating Nigerians on the country’s 64th anniversary, calling for a united effort to realise the nation’s potential. “This milestone is a tribute to the indomitable spirit of Nigerians who believe in their homeland despite numerous challenges,” he said.
Afenifere stands against centralisation
Similarly, the Pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, has vowed to resist what it described as the “undisguised policy of complete capture and absolute unitarianism” by the central government.
In a communique issued yesterday after its monthly meeting, the group expressed concerns over the growing centralisation of power, especially with the introduction of a bill to establish a National Independent Local Government Electoral Commission (NILGEC) to oversee local government elections.
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