Former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Timi Frank, has alleged that recent actions by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the ruling All Progressives Congress threaten Nigeria’s democratic stability.
In a statement issued on Thursday, Frank accused both INEC and the APC-led government of taking steps capable of weakening opposition parties ahead of the 2027 general elections. He warned that such developments could destabilize the country’s political system if not urgently addressed.
Frank’s reaction follows INEC’s decision to derecognize the leadership of David Mark within the African Democratic Congress (ADC), pending the outcome of a suit before a Federal High Court in Abuja.
Describing the move as part of a broader pattern, Frank alleged that interference in opposition parties—now extending to the ADC—signals a coordinated attempt to weaken political competition. He drew parallels between the current political climate and the era of Sani Abacha, when democratic institutions were widely suppressed.
The activist also raised concerns about the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, suggesting that recent developments point to a drift toward authoritarianism. According to him, efforts to consolidate power could undermine democratic governance in the country.
Frank further alleged that internal crises within major opposition parties, including the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Labour Party Nigeria, Social Democratic Party Nigeria (SDP), and New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), may have been influenced by external forces. He also accused the judiciary of delivering rulings that could frustrate democratic processes.
Calling for urgent action, Frank urged civil society groups and professional bodies—including the Nigerian Bar Association, Nigeria Labour Congress, Trade Union Congress of Nigeria, Nigerian Medical Association, and the Inter-Party Advisory Council—to speak out in defence of democracy.
He also appealed to the international community, particularly the administration of Donald Trump in the United States, to support efforts aimed at preserving democratic values in Nigeria.
Frank warned that failure to address these concerns could lead to political instability, stressing that silence at such a critical moment could have far-reaching consequences for the nation’s democratic future.
Comments