Nigerian group warns against weakening opposition, urges judiciary to protect democracy

The Igbo Leaders of Thought (ILT), a prominent socio-political group from Nigeria's South-East, has voiced serious concerns over the perceived weakening of opposition parties as the 2027 general elections approach. The group, comprising intellectuals and traditional rulers, warns that a diminished opposition could jeopardize Nigeria's democratic process and governance.

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The democracy Nigerians enjoy today is the product of years of struggle against military rule. The country requires a strong opposition to deepen democratic governance.

In a statement signed by its President, Prof. Elochukwu Amucheazi, and Secretary, Prof. Jerry Chukwuokolo, the ILT highlighted recent events, including concerns raised by presidential candidate Peter Obi about his security and business interests, and court rulings impacting opposition parties. The group also referenced alleged incidents of gunshots during Obi's political engagements in Edo State earlier this year.

ILT cautioned that actions perceived as hindering opposition activities could erode the credibility of the upcoming elections and the broader democratic framework. They emphasized that Nigeria's current democracy is the result of a long struggle against military rule and requires a robust opposition to deepen its roots. The group fears a potential drift towards a de facto one-party state, arguing that democracy thrives on political pluralism, competition, and the protection of diverse viewpoints.

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The group also expressed concern over what it described as the use of state institutions, including the judiciary, security agencies and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), in ways that could hinder opposition parties from effectively participating in the electoral process.

The ILT specifically called on the judiciary to play an impartial role in strengthening democratic institutions. They criticized recent court decisions affecting opposition parties, citing a Federal High Court judgment involving the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC). While welcoming the NDC's decision to appeal, the group urged the judiciary to uphold constitutional principles and safeguard democracy. They also appealed to the international community, including the United States and the European Union, to monitor the situation.

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The group also criticised recent judicial decisions affecting opposition parties, particularly a Federal High Court judgment in Lokoja involving the NDC, arguing that the judiciary should uphold constitutional principles and strengthen democratic institutions.