The 2023 Presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, has called on politicians, statesmen, and stakeholders to take decisive action to reclaim Nigeria’s democracy from the looming threat of oppression. In his Independence Day message on Monday, Atiku warned that the country is at risk of sliding into a one-party dictatorship due to the weaknesses of opposition parties.
Atiku accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of exploiting the vulnerabilities within opposition parties, rendering them ineffective. He urged all political figures of integrity to unite in the fight to restore the democratic ideals envisioned by Nigeria’s founders.
“Our political landscape has become corrosive; opposition parties languish in weakness, while the ruling party manipulates internal processes to make them ineffectual. Nigeria teeters on the brink of a one-party dictatorship, and it is incumbent upon all politicians and statesmen of integrity to rise and reclaim our democracy from the encroaching shadows of oppression,” the former Vice President stated.
As Nigeria prepares to celebrate its 64th Independence anniversary on October 1, Atiku emphasized that the occasion is more than just a celebration—it is a recognition of the resilience and determination of Nigerians who continue to believe in their nation’s potential.
“Our nation has navigated numerous turbulent periods, yet the tenacity of patriotic citizens, supported by the solidarity of our international allies, has strengthened our resolve as a unified and resilient entity,” he said.
Reflecting on Nigeria’s democratic progress, Atiku praised the establishment of democratic governance, highlighting the current period as the longest stretch of democracy in the nation’s history. However, he expressed concern over the lack of progress in fostering political inclusivity and ensuring genuinely free and fair elections.
“While democracy has anchored our institutions in the principles of the rule of law, we have yet to achieve satisfactory progress in fostering political inclusivity and ensuring elections that are genuinely free and fair,” Atiku noted.
He also voiced his concerns about declining electoral credibility, which he blamed on the ruling class, and called for a strong coalition of political leaders to offer Nigerians a credible opposition.
“Our founding fathers united under a common cause, championing our independence through peaceful, political activism. What we celebrate today is the fruition of their collective efforts and those of subsequent generations,” Atiku concluded.
