Opposition Leaders Raise Alarm Over Nigeria’s Democracy Ahead of 2027 Polls

Leaders of Nigeria’s opposition political parties have raised concerns over alleged threats to the country’s democratic system ahead of the 2027 general elections. The political leaders, who decried the spate of violent attacks across the country, said the situation was worrying but not beyond control.

The leaders voiced their concerns during a press conference themed “Urgent Call to Save Nigeria’s Democracy,” where they also criticized provisions in the amended electoral law, describing them as “anti-democratic” and out of step with Nigerians’ expectations.

On February 18, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu assented to the Electoral Act Amendment Bill, which opposition figures argue carries implications that only became clear after it was signed into law.

Ahmed Ajuji, National Chairman of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), who read the joint address, warned that Section 60(3) of the Act grants “undefined discretionary powers” to presiding officers regarding the electronic transmission of results, a move he said threatens transparency and the integrity of the ballot.

Party leader Buba Galadima said citizens also have a responsibility to defend the country’s democratic system, urging Nigerians not to relent in the pursuit of a better nation.

Highlighting the recent wave of killings across the country, particularly at places of worship, Galadima said political leaders must be held accountable.

“It is the duty of every Nigerian to protect this democracy. Our citizens are being slaughtered, and there is little response from those in authority,” he said. “The problem may not even be the leaders alone; it is also up to us as citizens to demand that our leaders address these heinous crimes happening across the country.”

He also criticized what he described as the suppression of freedom of expression, citing a recent protest in Kano where demonstrators were reportedly arrested by the Department of State Services (DSS) after demanding the removal of the agency’s state director.

The presidency, however, dismissed the claims. In a statement, Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, accused opposition parties, particularly the African Democratic Congress (ADC), of making “irresponsible political statements” to attract headlines and mislead the public.