By Peace Erewunmi

Former Vice President and presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Atiku Abubakar, has accused President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of being behind efforts to deregister the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), describing the development as a threat to Nigeria’s democratic system and multiparty politics.

Atiku made the allegation following a ruling by a Federal High Court in Lokoja, Kogi State, which set aside an earlier judgment that had directed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to register the NDC as a political party. The court held that another political group affected by the earlier judgment had not been joined in the case, making the previous decision defective.

Reacting to the development, Atiku claimed that the move reflects what he described as a growing attempt to weaken opposition forces ahead of future elections. He argued that any effort aimed at restricting political competition undermines democratic values and the constitutional rights of Nigerians to freely associate and participate in the political process.

According to the former Vice President, Nigeria’s democracy thrives on the existence of multiple political parties and competing viewpoints. He warned that attempts to eliminate or suppress opposition platforms could erode public confidence in elections and create fears of a one-party political system.

Atiku also referenced former Presidents Muhammadu Buhari and Goodluck Jonathan, noting that despite intense political competition during their administrations, opposition parties were not subjected to actions that could threaten their continued existence. He urged the current administration to uphold democratic principles and ensure a level playing field for all political actors.

The controversy comes amid broader debates over political realignments ahead of future elections, with opposition leaders increasingly raising concerns about the independence of democratic institutions and the protection of political freedoms.

However, there has been no official evidence publicly presented linking President Tinubu directly to the court proceedings concerning the NDC. The Presidency has yet to issue a formal response to Atiku’s allegations at the time of reporting.

As discussions continue, political observers say the matter is likely to remain a significant talking point within Nigeria’s political landscape, particularly as stakeholders debate the future of opposition politics, electoral competition, and democratic governance in the country.