Former Vice President and African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has accused President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration of weakening Nigeria’s democratic institutions and targeting opposition parties ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Atiku made the allegation in a Democracy Day statement issued in Abuja on Thursday, where he said June 12 should serve as a reminder of the values of democracy, popular sovereignty, and the sacrifices made by Nigerians in the struggle for democratic governance.
According to him, the country has witnessed what he described as a deliberate attempt in the past three years to weaken opposition parties through political crises, intimidation, defections, and alleged misuse of state institutions.
“Over the past three years, Nigerians have witnessed a deliberate and coordinated effort to weaken, fragment, and neutralise opposition political parties ahead of the 2027 general elections,” Atiku said.
The former vice president alleged that institutions such as financial crime agencies, the police, the National Assembly, and parts of the judiciary were being used to pressure opposition figures.
He also criticised aspects of the Electoral Act 2026, claiming some provisions favour the ruling party, while expressing concerns over freedom of speech, freedom of association, and media independence.
Atiku said the developments contradicted the ideals of the June 12 democratic struggle, recalling his involvement in the fight against military rule and the personal sacrifices he claimed to have made.
He referenced the annulled June 12, 1993 presidential election and recalled stepping aside during the Social Democratic Party (SDP) primaries to support the emergence of the late Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola as the party’s presidential candidate.
The ADC presidential candidate paid tribute to Nigerians who lost their lives in the struggle for democracy, including MKO Abiola, Kudirat Abiola, Alfred Rewane, and Shehu Musa Yar’Adua.
Atiku warned that Nigeria risks experiencing what he described as a new form of civilian authoritarianism, where institutions are allegedly weakened while still being used to provide legitimacy.
He listed concerns including shrinking civic space, electoral challenges, intimidation of opposition actors, and the weakening of democratic structures.
He further alleged that there are concerns about possible attempts to influence the outcome of the 2027 election if the ruling party cannot secure victory through the ballot.
Calling for collective action, Atiku said defending democracy should go beyond political parties and involve civil society groups, labour unions, professional bodies, and young Nigerians.
“The task before us transcends partisan politics. It is a national duty,” he stated.
He urged Nigerians to remain committed to protecting democratic values, adding that “the struggle continues.
