2027: Afenifere faction decries declining democracy, demands credible elections

A faction of the pan-Yoruba socio-political organization Afenifere, led by Oba Olaitan Oladipo, has voiced strong concerns over the deteriorating state of Nigerian democracy, urging President Bola Tinubu to guarantee credible elections in 2027. The group expressed alarm at what it described as a calculated effort by the current administration to suppress opposition voices and move towards a one-party system.

In a statement released ahead of the third anniversary of Tinubu's presidency, Afenifere highlighted growing intimidation tactics against opposition parties, labor groups, and civil society organizations. The organization warned that these trends could jeopardize Nigeria's democratic achievements and foster authoritarian tendencies. Concerns were also raised about the independence of electoral and judicial bodies, with Afenifere arguing that recent reforms have weakened, rather than strengthened, the credibility of the electoral system.

Afenifere stressed that electoral integrity is fundamental to national stability and cautioned that any further decline could escalate political tensions leading up to the 2027 general elections. The group implored the federal government to take immediate steps to restore confidence in the democratic process. This includes ensuring free and fair elections, promoting greater political inclusion, respecting opposition viewpoints, and safeguarding democratic institutions.

The organization warned against a drift toward one-party dominance, advocating for space for credible opposition and civic participation. "Afenifere hereby implores the Tinubu administration to change course towards inclusivity and credible democratic practice, and to ensure a free and fair election in 2027," the statement read. Afenifere expressed fear about the current trajectory of democracy in Nigeria, citing rising poverty, unemployment, insecurity, mass killings, kidnappings, and the weakening of federal structures and democratic institutions over the past three years.

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Afenifere hereby implores the Tinubu administration to change course towards inclusivity and credible democratic practice, and to ensure a free and fair election in 2027.