ADC raises alarm over court ruling, warns against one-party system

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has accused some people of trying to weaken opposition parties before the upcoming general election. They warned that Nigeria might become a one-party state if what they call the “growing attack on democracy” is not stopped.

This statement came after the Federal High Court in Lokoja set aside its earlier ruling that recognized the National Democratic Coalition (NDC). The ADC believes this decision is part of a larger effort to reduce the country’s democratic space.

In a statement on Saturday from its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the party shared its worries about ongoing legal and administrative actions against opposition parties. They said this trend is a serious threat to Nigeria’s constitutional democracy.

“The cumulative effect of these attacks is clear: they weaken the opposition, shrink the democratic space, and strengthen those already in power. This is not how a healthy democracy works,” the statement said in part.

The ADC pointed out that the issues surrounding the NDC are not just about one political party. They affect the entire democratic system in Nigeria.

“When opposition parties are constantly distracted by fake controversies and long legal battles, the real loser is the Nigerian people's right to choose among trustworthy political options,” the party stated.

The ADC also blamed President Bola Tinubu's government for creating an environment that hurts fair political competition. They argued that democracy thrives when all political actors are treated equally.

“This has not been the case under the Bola Tinubu administration,” the statement added.

With less than a year before the general election, the opposition party called on the judiciary to maintain its independence. They urged the courts to avoid actions that could damage public trust in the electoral process.

“The judiciary is one of the last defenses for our democracy and must never be seen as a place where political fights are settled for those in power. Justice must not only be done; it must be seen to be done,” Abdullahi said.

The party warned that any belief that the courts are being used for political goals could have serious effects on Nigeria’s democratic system.

The ADC asked for collective action, urging opposition parties, civil society groups, legal professionals, labor organizations, the media, and all Nigerians to join together to defend democratic institutions.

“Yesterday’s target was the NDC. Tomorrow, it could be anyone who tries to give Nigerians an alternative. We must not wait until the democratic space is completely stifled before we act,” the statement continued.

They also urged Nigerians to stay alert against attempts to intimidate or silence opposing voices. They emphasized that the rights to participate in politics and to associate freely are constitutional rights that must be upheld.

“The Constitution guarantees freedom of association, political participation, and the right of citizens to choose their leaders. These rights are not gifts from any government; they are constitutional guarantees that everyone must defend,” Abdullahi said.

The ADC promised to keep fighting against attempts to undermine multi-party democracy and vowed to stand with all Nigerians who want to protect democratic governance.