Ajiri Daniels, Abuja
A diaspora-based advocacy group has raised alarm over what it described as “troubling signals” of democratic backsliding in Nigeria, warning against any move toward a one-party system and calling for urgent reforms to safeguard the country’s electoral integrity.
Speaking at a press briefing, Dr. Raymond Edoh, President of the Nigerians in Diaspora for Good Governance Organization, said Nigeria is at a “defining moment” where the foundations of its democracy are being tested.
Edoh expressed concern over what he alleged to be attempts by the incumbent administration to weaken opposition parties, warning that such actions could undermine political plurality. “Democracy thrives on healthy opposition and freedom of expression,” he said, adding that any effort to suppress these principles must be resisted.
He declared that the African Democratic Congress (ADC) would not be intimidated by either the government or the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), describing political parties as “pillars of democracy.”
The group reaffirmed its recognition of David Mark as the legitimate leader of the ADC, warning that any attempt to alter the party’s leadership through what it termed “institutional manipulation” would be challenged lawfully.
Edoh also issued a direct call for the resignation of the INEC Chairman, arguing that such a step would help restore public confidence in Nigeria’s electoral system. He stressed that the appeal was made in the interest of accountability and institutional credibility.
The diaspora leader urged Nigerian youths to remain united, describing them as “guardians of democracy,” and hinted at the possibility of nationwide peaceful protests should electoral authorities fail to uphold transparency and constitutional order.
In his remarks, Edoh called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to demonstrate statesmanship by protecting democratic principles and ensuring fairness in governance. He said the president’s actions at this critical time would define his legacy.
The group also appealed to the international community, including the United States Department of State, the United Nations, and the European Union, among others, to closely monitor developments in Nigeria and support efforts to preserve democratic governance.
Edoh further called on Nigeria’s three arms of government—the executive, legislature, and judiciary—to uphold their constitutional responsibilities, emphasizing that the survival of democracy depends on the balance and integrity of these institutions.
He concluded by urging Nigerians to stand united in defense of democratic values, saying the country’s future must not be shaped by “intimidation, manipulation, or the concentration of power in the hands of a few.”
The post 2027: Edoh condemns one-party drift, calls for multiparty democracy in Nigeria appeared first on The Sun Nigeria.
