In a scathing critique of recent Court of Appeal rulings on governorship elections, Atiku Abubakar, the 2023 Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate, has accused the All Progressives Congress (APC) of employing a "snatch, grab, and run" agenda that poses a severe threat to Nigeria's democratic foundation.
In a press release on Monday, Atiku expressed deep concern over what he sees as a narrowing of opposition engagement by the ruling party, both in the electoral process and the post-election court proceedings. Atiku argued that these actions not only undermine the democratic principles of plurality of ideas but also cast doubt on the health of Nigeria's democracy.
The statement highlighted the controversial court decisions in states controlled by opposition parties, including Nassarawa, Kano, Zamfara, and most recently, Plateau. Atiku raised questions about the seemingly one-sided judgments, suggesting a pattern where what the ruling party failed to achieve on Election Day is being secured through the courts.
The former vice president drew attention to a viral video featuring an APC lawmaker who hinted at compromising the judicial process for the ruling party's benefit. Atiku characterized the situation as ominous, emphasizing the need for collective efforts to rescue democracy from what he described as "buccaneering power grabbers."
Atiku's statement also referenced the political landscape in Lagos State, where he alleged that opposition became anathema under the influence of APC stalwart Bola Tinubu. The media adviser, Paul Ibe, accused Tinubu of employing crude methods to reduce the ranks of the opposition and consolidate his power.
The release further raised concerns about the judiciary's integrity, echoing sentiments from legal figures such as Justice Dattijo Muhammad, Olumide Akpata, and Femi Falana. Atiku claimed that recent judgments indicated an alarming compromise within the judiciary, suggesting a departure from its historical courage and integrity.
The statement concluded by pointing to the APC's alleged influence over the judiciary and electoral processes, with accusations of appointments favoring loyalists and attempts to establish a one-party state. Atiku called for "eternal vigilance" as a necessity to safeguard Nigeria's democracy against what he perceives as an APC onslaught on democratic institutions.
Signed:Paul Ibe
Media Adviser to Atiku Abubakar
Vice President of Nigeria, 1999-2007
Abuja
20th November 2023
