Atiku Accuses Tinubu of Plotting to Weaken Opposition Through NDC Deregistration

The presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Atiku Abubakar, has accused President Bola Tinubu of attempting to undermine Nigeria’s democracy through an alleged plot to deregister the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).

Atiku made the allegation in a statement issued on Saturday while reacting to the recent court judgment affecting the registration of the NDC as a political party.

The former Vice President alleged that the move to deregister the opposition party through judicial means reflects what he described as the Tinubu administration’s determination to weaken political opposition ahead of the 2027 general elections.

According to him, any attempt to restrict political competition or limit citizens’ choices at the ballot box poses a serious threat to democratic governance and national stability.

Atiku said the development did not come as a surprise, arguing that recent actions and political signals from the current administration have raised concerns about its commitment to democratic principles.

“Nigerians are now seeing the true colours of President Tinubu, who pretends to be a democrat, but his body language and the sinister activities of his agents contradict his mouthed commitment to free and fair elections,” he said.

He warned that any attempt to weaken opposition parties could pave the way for a one-party state, stressing that Nigeria’s democracy depends on a vibrant and competitive political environment.