64th Independence: Nigeria on the edge of one-party dictatorship – Atiku

As Nigeria marks its 64th Independence Anniversary, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has called on the political elite to unite in defense of the country’s democracy, warning against the rise of authoritarianism.

In a personally signed statement, Atiku expressed concern over the current political climate, describing it as corrosive, with opposition parties weakened and the ruling party allegedly manipulating internal processes to suppress them.

The former presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) lamented that Nigeria is edging towards a one-party dictatorship.

He urged politicians and statesmen of integrity to take decisive action in reclaiming the nation’s democracy, emphasizing the need for inclusivity and truly free and fair elections.

Atiku called for a united front among political elites, stating that the country must act swiftly to protect its democratic institutions from the looming threat of oppression.

“Our founding fathers united under a common cause, championing our independence through peaceful, political activism.

What we celebrate today is the fruition of their collective endeavors and those of subsequent generations.”

He noted that regrettably the current landscape reflects a troubling decline in electoral credibility, increasingly subject to the caprices of the ruling class.

“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, and it is incumbent upon all politicians and statesmen of integrity to rise and reclaim our democracy from the encroaching shadows of oppression,” Atiku declared.

He also appealed to political leaders across all party lines to forge a formidable coalition, one that would provide Nigerians with a credible opposition capable of steering the nation towards a promising future.

The former Vice President who extended his congratulations to Nigerians “on the momentous occasion of the nation’s 64th Independence anniversary”, urges a “united endeavor to elevate the country to the greatness envisioned by its esteemed founders.”

Atiku emphasized that this milestone is not merely a commemoration but a tribute to the indomitable spirit and unwavering resolve of Nigerians who steadfastly believe in the potential of their homeland.

“Our nation has traversed numerous tumultuous phases, yet the tenacity of patriotic citizens, bolstered by the solidarity of our international allies, has fortified our resolve as a resilient entity,” he said.