Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has launched a scathing attack on President Bola Tinubu, accusing him of attempting to dismantle Nigeria’s multi-party democracy and steer the nation towards a one-party system. Atiku’s strong condemnation comes in the wake of a recent Federal High Court ruling concerning the registration of a new political entity.
The controversy stems from a decision by the Federal High Court in Lokoja, Kogi State, which on Saturday, vacated its earlier December 10, 2025, judgment. The initial ruling had compelled the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to register the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) as a political party. Presiding judge, Isah Dashen, reasoned that the Peace Movement Party, whose interests were affected, ought to have been included in the original suit. Consequently, the court ordered a return to the status quo, mandating a fresh hearing with all necessary parties present.
Atiku Alleges Tinubu’s “True Colours” and Undemocratic Intent
In a statement released on Saturday, Atiku asserted that this development reveals the “true colours” of the Tinubu administration, which he believes is actively working to undermine democratic competition ahead of the crucial 2027 general election. He critically stated, “Nigerians are now seeing the true colours of President Tinubu, who pretends to be a democrat, but his body language and the sinister activities of his agents contradict his mouthed commitment to free and fair elections.”
The former Vice President emphasized the fundamental role of citizen participation in credible elections as the bedrock of democracy. He cautioned that any endeavor to stifle such freedom of choice could potentially ignite “chaos and anarchy.” Atiku further drew a stark contrast between Tinubu’s past advocacy for democracy during military rule and his current actions, stating, “Tinubu cannot be a champion of democracy under military dictatorship and now become the worst enemy of everything that democracy stands for.” He added, “You can’t attempt to rule the people against their will and still pretend that you’re committed to free and fair elections in 2027.”
Call for Political Pluralism and Judicial Independence
Atiku underscored that any attempt to restrict political competition or diminish voters’ options poses a grave threat to the health of Nigeria’s democracy. He urged President Tinubu to draw lessons from his predecessors, former Presidents Muhammadu Buhari and Goodluck Jonathan, both of whom, despite intense political rivalries, did not resort to attempts to deregister opposition parties. “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,” Atiku challenged.
Furthermore, Atiku appealed directly to the judiciary, imploring judges to resist political pressures and safeguard their independence. He warned that public trust in the judicial system could be severely eroded if the institution fails to steadfastly uphold the rule of law.