A United Nations representative, Olufemi Aduwo has raised alarm over what he described as a growing threat to Nigeria’s democracy, accusing the All Progressives Congress and the Independent National Electoral Commission of actions capable of weakening opposition parties ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Aduwo, the Permanent Representative of the Centre for Convention on Democratic Integrity to ECOSOC, in a statement said recent political developments bear disturbing similarities to past efforts that undermined democratic progress in the country.
Aduwo recalled the events leading to the annulment of the June 12 1993 presidential election, noting that legal manoeuvres and political interference at the time disrupted what was widely regarded as Nigeria’s freest and fairest election.
He referenced the role of Arthur Nzeribe and the Association for Better Nigeria, which obtained a controversial court injunction that created the basis for the military government under Ibrahim Babangida to cancel the election.
Drawing parallels with the present situation, Aduwo alleged that similar tactics are now being deployed in a more subtle manner under civilian rule.
He claimed that the ruling party is encouraging internal divisions within opposition parties, leading to leadership disputes and prolonged litigation.
He identified the crisis within the African Democratic Congress as a clear example, stating that the party has been destabilised through factional claims and judicial entanglements.
According to him, INEC’s decision to remove the names of the party’s recognised National Working Committee from its official portal has effectively rendered the party leaderless and unable to function properly.
He argued that such action goes beyond administrative procedure and raises serious concerns about the neutrality of the electoral umpire in a democratic system.
“This is not political happenstance. It is a deliberate and coordinated effort to weaken opposition platforms and distort the democratic process.
“What we are witnessing is a gradual erosion of democratic structures through institutional capture and procedural manipulation.
“If opposition parties are systematically crippled, then elections lose their meaning and become mere formalities rather than genuine contests,” he added.
He warned that any attempt to impose a one party dominance in Nigeria would provoke resistance from citizens and could further weaken trust in democratic institutions.
OSUN DEFENDER reports that INEC had last Wednesday de-recognised the David Mark led ADC NWC, alluding to ongoing court cases instituted by an ex-party member, Nafiu Bala Gombe. The move has however been described by many stakeholders as an attempt to stifle the leading opposition party ahead of the 2027 General Election.
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