A governorship aspirant of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Oyo State, Barrister Niyi Aborisade, has warned that Nigeria’s democratic system is under severe strain, urging the Federal Government to allow opposition parties to operate without interference.
Aborisade, who addressed journalists in Ibadan, also called for the removal of the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan, alleging that recent actions of the commission had raised concerns about its neutrality.
He stated that the country was witnessing a shrinking political space, stressing that opposition remains a critical pillar of any democratic system.
“A democracy without opposition is not a democracy; it is a gradual descent into authoritarianism,” he said.
The ADC chieftain expressed concern over what he described as moves to weaken opposition parties, citing recent developments within his party, including the alleged delisting of some leaders.
According to him, the development suggests external interference aimed at suppressing dissent and limiting political competition.
“There appears to be a deliberate attempt to weaken opposition parties across the country. This is not just about ADC; it is about the future of democracy in Nigeria,” he said.
Aborisade further alleged that under the administration of President Bola Tinubu, opposition politics was increasingly being treated as a threat rather than a legitimate component of democratic governance.
He warned that such a trend could erode accountability and deny Nigerians the benefits of credible alternatives.
“When opposition voices are silenced, the people lose their power to choose, to question, and to demand accountability,” he added.
Despite these concerns, Aborisade maintained that the ADC remained resolute and would continue to operate within the ambit of the law.
He stated that the party had duly notified INEC of its planned congresses and conventions, noting that the commission’s role was limited to observation.
“There have been instances where political parties conducted their primaries without INEC’s presence and the outcomes were still recognised. There must be consistency and fairness,” he said.
The governorship hopeful urged the Federal Government to focus on pressing national challenges such as insecurity, economic hardship, unemployment and the rising cost of living, rather than targeting opposition parties.
“Suppressing opposition will not solve insecurity. Silencing dissent will not create jobs. What Nigeria needs is inclusive governance,” he said.
Aborisade also dismissed speculations of factionalisation within the ADC in Oyo State, insisting that the party in the state remained united.
He affirmed that Alhaji Yinka Olona remains the recognised chairman of the party in the state, while Mr Ayo Akinyemi is the recognised Chairman of the Membership Registration and Membership Revalidation (MRMR), adding that this has been confirmed by the party’s national leadership.
The ADC governorship aspirant, however, called on Nigerians to remain vigilant and to actively participate in the democratic process in order to safeguard the nation’s future.
