The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has launched a scathing attack on the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Federal Government, accusing them of orchestrating a plot to stifle legitimate opposition under the pretext of national security. This accusation stems from recent pronouncements by a presidential aide, Bayo Onanuga, who alleged a conspiracy to overthrow the Tinubu administration. The ADC vehemently denies any such intentions, asserting its commitment to democratic processes and its sole focus on rescuing Nigeria from what it perceives as the gross incompetence of the current government. The party views Onanuga’s statement as a dangerous precursor to a potential crackdown on dissenting voices and a calculated attempt to criminalize legitimate opposition activities.
The ADC’s concerns are rooted in the escalating hostility displayed by the APC towards any form of opposition. The party finds it ironic that the APC, having ascended to power as an opposition party itself, now appears intolerant of dissenting views. The ADC labels Onanuga’s pronouncements as a classic example of a “political dog whistle,” a deliberate attempt to create a false narrative that justifies suppressing opposition voices under the guise of protecting national security. The ADC maintains that its objective is not to disrupt democracy but to offer alternative solutions and a different vision for Nigeria’s future, allowing the Nigerian people to make their choice through the ballot box. The party emphasizes its commitment to democratic means, contrasting its approach with the APC’s perceived reliance on intimidation and suppression.
The ADC further criticizes the APC for resorting to unsubstantiated allegations, particularly Onanuga’s claim of a plot to overthrow the government. The party argues that such rhetoric, especially two years before the next general election, unnecessarily heats up the political climate. This “crying wolf” tactic, according to the ADC, not only reflects poorly on President Tinubu but also betrays a sense of panic within the ruling party. The ADC urges President Tinubu to restrain his aides from making such inflammatory statements and to focus on addressing the nation’s challenges rather than manufacturing crises. The ADC’s core argument centers on the vital role of a vibrant and unfettered opposition in a healthy democracy, a principle it believes the APC is actively undermining.
The ADC calls upon Nigerian citizens to remain vigilant against covert attempts to delegitimize the opposition and erode democratic space. The party emphasizes that a thriving democracy hinges on a free, open, and competitive political environment, where diverse voices can contribute to national discourse without fear of reprisal. The ADC believes that the APC’s actions are a direct threat to this fundamental principle, potentially jeopardizing Nigeria’s democratic progress. The party’s appeal extends beyond the domestic sphere, engaging the international community to monitor the evolving political situation in Nigeria. The ADC seeks the support of democratic governments, human rights organizations, and election observers to hold the Tinubu administration accountable for any actions that infringe upon democratic freedoms or violate the political rights of Nigerian citizens.
The ADC’s plea to the international community underscores the gravity of its concerns about the shrinking democratic space in Nigeria. The party perceives the actions of the APC and the government as a systematic effort to silence dissenting voices and consolidate power through undemocratic means. By invoking the attention of international bodies, the ADC seeks to exert external pressure on the Tinubu administration to uphold democratic principles and respect the rights of all citizens to participate freely in the political process. The party’s appeal highlights its belief that the future of Nigerian democracy is at stake and that the international community has a role to play in safeguarding it.
Ultimately, the ADC frames its struggle as a fight for the soul of Nigerian democracy. The party positions itself as a defender of democratic values, committed to peaceful and participatory governance. It contrasts its approach with what it perceives as the APC’s authoritarian tendencies, warning of the dangers of unchecked power and the suppression of opposition. The ADC calls on all Nigerians to join its efforts in protecting and strengthening democracy, emphasizing the crucial role of citizen engagement in holding the government accountable and ensuring a free and fair political landscape. The party’s message resonates with the belief that the power of the people, expressed through democratic means, is the ultimate safeguard against tyranny and the foundation of a just and prosperous society.
