Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has launched a scathing attack on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, alleging that Nigeria’s democracy is being weakened by what he described as a “deliberate consolidation of power” by the ruling administration.
In a statement issued by his media aide, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku argued that recent political developments point to a systematic effort to dominate the country’s political space while weakening opposition forces ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The former presidential candidate claimed that the growing alignment of state governors with the ruling party raises concerns about the health of Nigeria’s multi-party system. He suggested that rather than demonstrating confidence, the trend reflects a deeper anxiety within the government about political competition and voter sentiment.
According to him, despite what he described as significant control over state institutions, there appears to be an increasing reluctance to allow open political contestation.
Atiku also took aim at what he characterised as the use of food distribution as a political tool, arguing that such measures cannot replace public trust or legitimacy.
“Relief items may provide temporary support, but they cannot determine electoral outcomes,” the statement said, warning against what it portrayed as attempts to influence voters through short-term palliatives.
The statement further alleged that key democratic institutions are coming under pressure, citing concerns about the neutrality of electoral processes and the growing role of the courts in resolving internal party disputes.
Atiku warned that conflicting judicial decisions and administrative actions risk undermining public confidence in governance and electoral credibility.
He also raised alarm over what he described as the increasing use of detention and law enforcement actions against opposition figures, suggesting it could signal a broader pattern of suppressing dissent.
The former vice president noted that several prominent political figures across party lines—including Peter Obi, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, Rotimi Amaechi, Nasir El-Rufai, Rauf Aregbesola, David Mark, and Abubakar Malami—are operating in what he described as an increasingly constrained political environment.
He argued that such a climate is inconsistent with democratic norms and could erode the credibility of future elections if not addressed.
Atiku cautioned that Nigeria risks drifting toward a one-party dominant system if current trends continue, warning that elections could become “a managed process” rather than a genuine contest of ideas.
He called on Nigerians to remain vigilant and demand accountability, stressing that democracy must be anchored on free competition and institutional independence.
“As 2027 approaches, the critical question is why a government with such extensive control still appears wary of open political competition,” the statement said.
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