Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has raised serious concerns about alleged attempts to undermine Nigeria’s democratic system.
Speaking in Abuja on Monday at a national conference on strengthening democracy, organized by several civic organizations, Atiku accused the All Progressives Congress (APC) of offering N50 million each to opposition party leaders in a bid to weaken the country’s democratic process.
“I want to say it here publicly. I met with a political party leadership in the present opposition, and they told me flatly that this government gives them N50 million each,” Atiku stated, sparking a heated discussion about the integrity of opposition parties in Nigeria.
Atiku noted that the nation’s democracy is at risk of collapse if immediate steps are not taken to address the issue. He expressed concern about the lack of commitment among some opposition leaders, asking, “Do we really want to fight for democracy?” He warned that if such alleged practices continue, the fight for democracy might be rendered futile.
The former Vice President also criticized the current state of Nigeria’s political institutions. He described the National Assembly as a “rubber stamp” for the government, implying that it has failed to serve as an independent check on executive power.
Furthermore, he raised doubts about the credibility of Nigeria’s electoral commission, pointing to examples from other countries. He mentioned Turkey’s electoral body as a model, noting how it refused to declare a president-elect who did not meet the required vote threshold.
Reflecting on his personal sacrifices for democracy, Atiku spoke of past challenges, including an assassination attempt, the seizure of his businesses, and his time in exile. He urged opposition parties to unite in the fight to protect Nigeria’s democracy, stressing that division would only serve to harm the nation.
“If we don’t unite and take action, we may end up with no democracy at all. God forbid,” Atiku warned in his closing remarks.