“Nigeria teeters on the brink of a one-party dictatorship” – Atiku

As Nigeria prepares to celebrate its 64th Independence Day on Tuesday, October 1, former Vice President and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar is urging politicians, statesmen, and citizens to unite in reclaiming the nation’s democracy from looming threats of oppression.

In a powerful Independence Day message delivered on Monday, September 30, Atiku emphasized the urgent need for collective action, warning that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) is exploiting the weaknesses of opposition parties, rendering them ineffective. He stated,

“Our political milieu has become corrosive; opposition parties languish in weakness, while the ruling party appears to manipulate internal processes to render them ineffectual. Nigeria teeters on the brink of a one-party dictatorship.”

He highlighted that this year’s anniversary should not only be a time of celebration but also a moment of reflection on the indomitable spirit of Nigerians who remain steadfast in their belief in the country’s potential.

“The tenacity of patriotic citizens, bolstered by the solidarity of our international allies, has fortified our resolve as a resilient entity,” he stated. He took pride in the fact that Nigeria has experienced its longest period of democratic governance in its history, while also acknowledging the ongoing challenges in achieving political inclusivity and conducting genuinely free and fair elections.

Atiku voiced concerns about the declining credibility of the electoral process under the current ruling class and called for a united opposition. “Political leaders must come together to form a strong coalition that can offer Nigerians a credible alternative for a better future,” he urged.

He concluded by reminding Nigerians of the sacrifices made by the country’s founding fathers, who championed independence through peaceful activism. “What we celebrate today is the fruition of their collective endeavors and those of subsequent generations,” he said.