ADC-PCC Accuses Tinubu Government of Targeting Opposition, Warns Against Threats to Democracy

The African Democratic Congress Presidential Campaign Council (ADC-PCC) has accused the administration of President Bola Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress (APC) of creating an atmosphere of intimidation for opposition parties, warning that alleged attempts to suppress political participation will not succeed.

In a statement signed by its Director of Media and Publicity, Kola Ologbondiyan, the council described recent incidents involving opposition figures and political parties across the country as a coordinated attack on democracy, freedom of association and Nigerians’ constitutional right to political participation.

The ADC-PCC argued that the reported incidents went beyond ordinary political disagreements, alleging that they formed part of a pattern aimed at intimidating opposition voices ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Among the incidents cited were reported attacks on ADC leaders and members in Kaduna, as well as an alleged assault on the party’s Sokoto State governorship candidate, Alhaji Munir Dan Iya, by operatives of the Sokoto Marshals along Airport Road in Sokoto.

The council also referenced the reported demolition of its governorship campaign office in Kebbi State and the alleged denial of a campaign venue in Enugu State to the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Peter Obi.

It further mentioned the reported attack on African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore and other opposition figures, describing the developments as signs of growing political intolerance.

According to the council, alleged attacks, arrests, harassment and restrictions on campaign activities raise serious concerns about the state of democratic freedoms and political pluralism in Nigeria.

The ADC-PCC maintained that no government could successfully suppress the political aspirations of Nigerians, regardless of its influence or control of state institutions.

It recalled the opposition to former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s third-term agenda, arguing that Nigerians had previously demonstrated their willingness to resist attempts to undermine democratic principles.

The council also accused the APC of failing to uphold the same freedoms it enjoyed while in opposition, insisting that all political parties and their members should be allowed to participate freely in the democratic process.

The statement also raised concerns over the continued detention of the ADC’s Vice Chairman and former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai. The council alleged that he was being unlawfully detained and denied his right to bail.

It warned that the circumstances surrounding his detention were attracting international attention, adding that those responsible would be held accountable.

The ADC-PCC further alleged that financial inducements were being used to weaken opposition ranks and persuade individuals to abandon their political positions.

However, it insisted that Nigerians would not give up their constitutional rights in exchange for money or other material benefits.

Calling on citizens to remain committed to democratic values, the council urged Nigerians to defend freedom of association and the right to make political choices regardless of party affiliation.

It reaffirmed the ADC’s determination to provide an alternative political platform, declaring that the party remained committed to what it described as the task of rescuing the country.

The allegations raised by the council were presented in its statement, which did not include responses from the Presidency or the APC.