PDP Launches Scathing Attack, Accuses Tinubu of Undermining Democracy

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has levied serious accusations against the administration of President Bola Tinubu, asserting that it is actively weakening Nigeria’s democratic institutions and steering the nation towards authoritarian governance. These allegations were articulated in a statement released on Saturday by Ini Ememobong, the National Publicity Secretary of the PDP’s Interim National Working Committee. The party's statement followed a recent assessment by the Human Rights Foundation, whose findings were published on its 'Tyranny Tracker' platform.

The PDP highlighted that the Human Rights Foundation's report echoed growing concerns regarding several critical aspects of Nigeria’s democracy. These include the integrity of the electoral process, the state of freedom of expression, the effectiveness of institutional checks and balances, and the protection afforded to dissent within the country. The opposition party contended that various characteristics commonly associated with authoritarian regimes are becoming increasingly apparent in Nigeria. Specifically, it cited signs such as compromised elections, increasing restrictions on free speech, the targeting of opposition figures, and a noticeable limitation in institutional oversight.

To substantiate its claims, the PDP provided specific examples of what it described as the suppression of dissent and freedom of expression. The party pointed to recent criticisms directed at prominent religious figures and bodies, including Cardinal John Onaiyekan, the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria, and the broader Catholic Church, by officials and supporters of the current administration. Furthermore, the opposition accused the National Assembly of failing in its constitutional duty to effectively scrutinize and check the executive branch. It alleged that lawmakers have not adequately challenged the government on crucial issues, particularly those pertaining to the implementation of government budgets and other executive actions, thereby compromising its oversight function.

Expressing deep concern about the upcoming 2027 general elections, the PDP further alleged that security agencies are being misused as tools against political opponents. The party also claimed that the electoral process itself is becoming increasingly partisan, raising doubts about its fairness and impartiality. In light of these concerns, the PDP urgently called upon the Tinubu administration to cease actions that could escalate political tensions within the country. The party issued a stern warning that while political actors might be focused on securing victory in the 2027 presidential election, the overarching democratic stability of Nigeria must not be jeopardized or sacrificed in pursuit of such ambitions.

Concluding its statement, the PDP appealed to all Nigerians to remain vigilant and continue demanding accountability from their leaders. It also urged the government to commit to and ensure the conduct of a free, fair, credible, and peaceful electoral process in the future, safeguarding the foundational principles of Nigeria's democracy.