Leading Nigerian civil society activists have raised serious concerns over what they describe as a deliberate and ongoing attempt by President Bola Tinubu’s administration to dismantle the country’s democratic framework and establish a one-party state. These activists, including prominent figures such as Richard Akinnola, Abdul Mahmud, Dr. Sam Amadi, and others, have vowed to resist this move, emphasizing that democracy cannot thrive without a strong opposition.
The activists expressed alarm over the manipulation of state institutions for political gain, warning that this tactic is severely eroding the trust and integrity of Nigeria’s democratic system. In a statement titled Defending Democracy: A Call to Resist a One-Party State in Nigeria, they highlighted the troubling trend where key opposition figures, including former governors and legislators, are defecting to the ruling party under pressure, with many citing fear of prosecution or intimidation.
The statement underlined that a democracy without opposition parties is no democracy at all, stressing the critical role political pluralism plays in ensuring accountability, fostering debate, and providing citizens with meaningful choices. The activists condemned the move towards a one-party state, calling it a betrayal of the values Nigerians fought for during the struggle against military rule.
The statement also warned that this growing authoritarianism could lead to a return of impunity, where the absence of political opposition allows for unchecked governance. The activists called on President Tinubu to remember the democratic ideals that led him to power and to halt the persecution of opposition leaders. They urged Nigerians, civil society groups, the media, and the international community to stay vigilant and speak out against this dangerous shift.
The statement concluded with a powerful call to action: “We did not fight to end military dictatorship only to see civilian authoritarianism take its place. We must rise now to defend democracy, or risk losing it forever.”
