A group, the Democracy Watch Initiative (DWI), has expressed strong opposition to the recent application for the registration of a new political party, the All Democratic Alliance (ADA), led by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and key political allies.

The group called on citizens, civil society, and reform-minded political actors to resist attempts to manipulate public trust and to work together to build a more united, transparent, and people-focused political system.

In a statement issued Monday by its Director of Strategic Communication, Dr. AbdulRazak Ahmed, the pro-democracy group warned that the formation of the ADA threatens the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic process and risks deepening existing divisions within the country’s political landscape.

Ahmed said: “We express our deep concern over this development, which we believe undermines the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic process and threatens the political atmosphere that is already fraught with challenges.

“The formation of the All Democratic Alliance is not merely a benign attempt to broaden the political spectrum; rather, it is an endeavor that is likely to sow further discord and division among the Nigerian populace.

“The DWI asserts that this initiative, driven by a coalition that has previously failed to deliver on its promises to the Nigerian people, is doomed to fail. We call upon all Nigerians to reject this party and its misguided objectives.

“The Atiku-led coalition has a track record that is marred by disillusionment and unmet expectations. Many Nigerians are still grappling with the consequences of past political decisions made by its leaders, which have often prioritized personal ambition over the welfare of the citizenry. The establishment of the ADA appears to be a strategic move aimed at consolidating power rather than addressing the pressing issues that plague our nation.

“The political landscape in Nigeria has been characterized by a proliferation of parties that often lack a clear ideological foundation or a commitment to the democratic ideals that the DWI champions.
The ADA is poised to add to this cacophony of voices, diluting the potency of genuine political discourse and creating further fragmentation in an already divided electorate.

“The Atiku-led coalition is fundamentally undermined by the questionable credibility of its core members and leaders. Atiku Abubakar himself is beset by longstanding allegations of corruption, raising concerns about his motivations and integrity in seeking to govern Nigeria.

“Similarly, Nasir El-Rufai’s tenure as Governor of Kaduna State has been marred by moral controversies that cast doubt on his ethical standing. Furthermore, both Rotimi Amaechi and Babachir Lawal grapple with significant credibility issues, with accusations of corruption that further erode public trust.

“Collectively, these factors not only diminish the coalition’s appeal but also reflect a broader challenge within Nigerian politics, where the intertwining of power and ethical lapses often leads to disillusionment among the electorate.

“The coalition’s ability to present a united and credible front is thus severely compromised, raising critical questions about its capacity to address the pressing issues facing Nigeria and to inspire confidence in its leadership.

“The Democracy Watch Initiative believes that Nigeria needs political entities that are genuinely committed to the principles of democracy, accountability, and social justice. The establishment of yet another political party, particularly one that lacks a clear agenda for national development, only serves to distract from the urgent need for unity and purposeful governance.

“The organization called on Nigerians to remain vigilant and discerning in their political choices, urging the electorate to focus on leaders and platforms that embody transparency, accountability, and a genuine commitment to national progress.”

The group urged Nigerians to focus on parties and candidates that demonstrate a clear commitment to addressing the critical issues facing our nation, such as poverty alleviation, education reform, healthcare access, and security.

He added, “The ADA, as proposed by the Atiku-led coalition, fails to present such a vision and instead risks perpetuating the cycle of political patronage and disillusionment that has plagued our democracy.

“As citizens of this great nation, we must remain vigilant and discerning in our political choices. The Democracy Watch Initiative calls on all Nigerians to reject the All Democratic Alliance and any political maneuvering that seeks to exploit our democratic processes for personal or factional gain.

“We must embrace a political culture that prioritizes the collective good over individual ambitions. It is imperative that we support movements and parties that are rooted in transparency, accountability, and a genuine commitment to the democratic ideals that underpin our society.

“In conclusion, the Democracy Watch Initiative stands resolute in its condemnation of the All Democratic Alliance and the Atiku-led coalition’s attempt to introduce yet another political party into our already complex political landscape.

“We implore all Nigerians to remain steadfast in their commitment to true democratic values and to actively participate in shaping a future that reflects the aspirations of all citizens. Together, let us reject division and work towards a more united, prosperous Nigeria.”