Atiku Abubakar Urges Tinubu to Learn from Buhari, Jonathan on Opposition Parties

Nigeria's former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, has called on President Bola Tinubu to uphold democratic principles by refraining from deregistering opposition political parties. Abubakar urged Tinubu to follow the examples set by former Presidents Muhammadu Buhari and Goodluck Jonathan, neither of whose administrations attempted to eliminate opposition parties despite intense political competition.

Abubakar's statement comes in response to what he described as an effort to deregister the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) through legal means. He alleged that this move is part of a larger strategy to weaken opposition forces in anticipation of the 2027 general elections and ultimately establish a one-party state, which he warned would undermine Nigeria's democracy.

"If you're truly popular and your policies have positively bettered the lives of the citizens, you shouldn't be afraid of a free and fair competition," Abubakar stated. He argued that restricting political competition contradicts democratic ideals and erodes public trust in the electoral process. Nigerians, he insisted, must have the freedom to participate in credible elections without undue interference.

The former vice president also appealed to the judiciary to protect its independence and integrity. He cautioned judges against allowing the judicial process to be used for partisan political aims, highlighting the judiciary's crucial role in sustaining democracy. Abubakar warned that actions by a few judicial officers could negatively impact public perception of the institution, stressing the importance of strict adherence to the rule of law.

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If you're truly popular and your policies have positively bettered the lives of the citizens, you shouldn't be afraid of a free and fair competition.