Former Vice President of Nigeria, Atiku Abubakar, has expressed concern over the current political situation in the country, warning that Nigeria is on the verge of becoming a one-party state.
In a message marking Nigeria’s 64th Independence Day on Tuesday, Atiku called on political leaders to come together and protect the nation’s democracy.
“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,” Atiku said.
He criticized the current political environment, describing it as “corrosive” and claiming that opposition parties have been weakened while the ruling party manipulates processes to render them ineffective.
“It is deeply regrettable that our current landscape reflects a troubling decline in electoral credibility, increasingly manipulated by those in power,” he added.
Atiku, who was the presidential candidate for the Peoples Democratic Party in the 2023 elections, urged political leaders across different parties to unite and form a strong coalition that would give Nigerians a credible opposition and lead the country toward a better future.
He also congratulated Nigerians on the 64th Independence anniversary, calling it a tribute to the resilience and determination of the people who continue to believe in the country’s potential.
“Our nation has traversed numerous tumultuous phases, yet the tenacity of patriotic citizens, bolstered by the solidarity of our international allies, has fortified our resolve as a resilient entity,” Atiku said. He called for unity in working to achieve the vision of Nigeria’s founding fathers.
