Former VP accuses Tinubu administration of entrenching one-party rule
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has raised an alarm over what he describes as an “existential threat” facing Nigeria’s democracy.
In a strongly worded statement released on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, through his spokesperson, Paul Ibe, the former presidential candidate accused the administration of President Bola Tinubu of systematically weakening opposition parties and shrinking the nation’s democratic space. Atiku warned that these actions, if left unchecked, could transform Nigeria into a de facto one-party state, undermining the pluralism essential for a healthy democracy.
The statement highlighted that for nearly three years, Nigerians have endured severe economic hardship alongside political maneuvers designed to eliminate viable alternatives to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Atiku alleged that the APC is pursuing a calculated strategy to remain dominant “by default, not by merit.” He stressed that the erosion of credible opposition platforms represents a grave danger to the country’s future, as democracy cannot survive without strong, independent political alternatives.
Resistance through the African Democratic Congress
In response to the perceived threat, Atiku noted that patriotic leaders have identified the danger and rallied around the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as a platform for “national rescue.” However, he alleged that forces aligned with the Presidency are already attempting to destabilize the ADC by interfering in its internal affairs. He specifically pointed to public pressure and speculation regarding the party’s choice of a presidential candidate as evidence of external sabotage aimed at weakening the emerging coalition.
Despite these challenges, Atiku reaffirmed the ADC’s commitment to an open, transparent, and competitive process for selecting its flagbearer. He insisted that the party’s immediate focus remains on building robust ward, local government, and state structures across the federation. The former Vice President assured that the ADC remains inclusive and open to all genuine opposition figures who are committed to rescuing the nation’s democratic integrity.
Atiku dismisses calls to step aside for 2027
Addressing internal and external pressure, Atiku dismissed calls from some quarters—including certain “Obidient” factions—for him to step aside from the 2027 presidential race. He described such demands as irresponsible and anti-democratic, characterizing them as subtle attempts to advance authoritarian interests. The statement emphasized that Atiku Abubakar remains central to the ongoing “rescue mission” and that any attempt to force him out would be a disservice to the Nigerian people’s right to democratic choice.
He clarified that within the ADC coalition, no aspirant will be coerced into withdrawing for another. This response follows comments by allies of Peter Obi who have rejected the idea of Obi serving as a Vice Presidential candidate in a combined ticket. Atiku maintained that the strength of the opposition lies in its diversity and its adherence to democratic principles, rather than forced consolidations dictated by external actors or proxies of the ruling party.
