Former Governor of Sokoto State, Alhaji Attahiru Dalhatu Bafarawa, has cautioned President Bola Ahmed Tinubu against suppressing opposition politics, warning that such actions could endanger Nigeria’s democratic system.
In an open letter addressed to Tinubu, Bafarawa reminded the President of his own political journey, emphasizing that opposition politics played a crucial role in his rise to power. He urged Tinubu to uphold Nigeria’s multi-party democracy, stressing that past administrations allowed opposition voices to thrive—ultimately paving the way for the formation of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
“You are a product of opposition politics,” Bafarawa wrote. “It would be a grave mistake to let temporary power mislead you into stifling the opposition. Anyone advising you to do so is setting you up to tarnish your reputation as a democrat.”
Beyond political concerns, Bafarawa expressed deep worry over Nigeria’s worsening economic crisis, highlighting rising inflation, insecurity, and widespread hunger. He called on Tinubu to take urgent action to address these challenges.
“The insecurity you promised to tackle is worsening. Inflation is spiraling out of control. Hunger is widespread, and Nigerians are in distress. This slide must be arrested without further delay,” he warned.
While acknowledging the economic difficulties Tinubu inherited from his predecessor, Muhammadu Buhari, Bafarawa insisted that the President has a historic duty to fulfill his campaign promises and improve the lives of Nigerians.
He urged Tinubu to take lessons from the United States’ democratic model, where a strong opposition ensures stability. Any attempt to silence opposition voices, he warned, could destabilize the country.
“Nigeria cannot afford a one-party system—it is a recipe for anarchy,” Bafarawa stated. “Democracy remains the best path forward for national progress.”
He concluded by reminding Tinubu that without a thriving opposition in the past, he would not have had the platform to become President.
“Had those before you suppressed opposition politics, you wouldn’t be where you are today,” Bafarawa added.
Comments