Prominent opposition leaders, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, have accused the current administration of President Bola Tinubu of dismantling democratic ideals and eroding the spirit of June 12.
In separate Democracy Day statements, both leaders expressed deep concern over the state of Nigeria’s democracy, citing increasing authoritarianism, suppression of dissent, manipulation of public perception, and worsening economic hardship.
Atiku described the current administration as representing the lowest point in Nigeria’s democratic journey. He warned that the gains achieved since the return to civilian rule were being reversed, pointing to what he termed “a creeping one-party dictatorship.”
“Thirty-two years ago, Nigeria stood on the cusp of greatness,” he said, recalling the historic 1993 presidential election. “It was a moment of great promise and great sacrifice. I made my own sacrifices, including stepping aside for Chief MKO Abiola. But many gave more — Kudirat Abiola, Tafida Shehu Musa Yar’Adua, Alfred Rewane — who paid with their lives.”
Atiku lamented that the ruling party was replacing governance with conquest and silencing alternative voices. “This government represents the lowest ebb in our democratic journey,” he stated, adding that June 12 must remain not just a memory but a movement against oppression.
Peter Obi echoed similar sentiments, asserting that Nigeria could no longer be described as a democratic nation. “Democracy is a government of the people, by the people, and for the people. Yet, none of these measures exist in our democracy today,” he said.
Obi condemned the electoral process, alleging that the rules were constantly flouted and unqualified individuals now held public office. He said under the current administration, democratic values had eroded rapidly.
“In just two years, we have seen the collapse of security, the economy, and social services like education and healthcare,” Obi said.
He accused the Federal Government of gaslighting the public and shifting blame instead of accepting responsibility and showing transparency.
Backed by economic data, Obi noted that Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product had fallen significantly, with per capita income dropping and poverty levels rising sharply. “Nigerians living in poverty have risen to 54 per cent, with 129 million now below the poverty line. The World Bank states that 75 per cent of rural Nigerians now live in poverty,” he added.
On education, Obi said the country had the highest number of out-of-school children globally. “Our children are being taught science without labs, computers without computers. They write exams in the dark using candles,” he lamented.
Both leaders concluded that the hope and sacrifice symbolised by June 12 were being betrayed, and urged Nigerians to remain committed to reclaiming true democratic governance.
ADEOLA KUNLE
