A public affairs analyst and activist, Adekunle Adebayo, has raised alarm over what he described as an alleged plot to arrest and intimidate prominent opposition figures in Nigeria, warning that the move could undermine democracy and push the country towards a de facto one-party system.
In a statement made available to DAILY POST on Tuesday, Adebayo claimed that former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Rivers State Governor, Rotimi Amaechi, are among high-profile politicians allegedly marked for arrest. He further alleged that former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir el-Rufai, is also being targeted as part of what he described as a broader strategy to weaken opposition politics ahead of future elections.
According to Adebayo, other notable political figures reportedly facing similar threats include former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Isa Ali Pantami; former Osun State Governor and ex-Minister of Interior, Rauf Aregbesola; and Kashim Ibrahim Imam, among others.
The activist claimed that the alleged plan follows what he described as earlier arrests and detentions of key political figures, including former Sokoto State Governor, Aminu Tambuwal; former Anambra State Governor, Chris Ngige; and former Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami. He argued that these developments, taken together, point to a pattern of selective law enforcement driven by political considerations rather than the rule of law.
Adebayo warned that any attempt to arrest opposition leaders without due process would amount to grave violations of the 1999 Constitution (as amended). He cited potential breaches of fundamental rights, including the right to personal liberty, freedom of association and expression, equality before the law, and the independence of the judiciary.
“Selective application of law enforcement based on political affiliation is incompatible with constitutional democracy,” Adebayo said. “If these reported plans are carried out, they will represent a dangerous precedent and a serious setback for Nigeria’s democratic journey.”
He cautioned that such actions could weaken public trust in democratic institutions and foster political instability, particularly at a time when the country faces significant economic and social challenges.
The analyst called on Nigerians, civil society organisations and the international community to remain vigilant and closely monitor unfolding political developments. He warned that Nigeria risks sliding into a system where democratic institutions exist only in name, while political power is consolidated through intimidation, coercion and selective justice.
Adebayo urged authorities to respect the rule of law and constitutional safeguards, stressing that a healthy democracy depends on the protection of opposition voices and the fair application of justice, regardless of political affiliation.
As of the time of filing this report, there has been no official response from the federal government or security agencies to the allegations.
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