Party describes ADC as ideologically unstable, insists Nigeria’s democratic institutions remain intact under Tinubu
The Lagos State Chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has rejected claims by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar that Nigeria’s democracy is facing an “existential threat,” describing the statement as alarmist and reflective of an opposition grappling with declining relevance.
In a statement issued on Saturday by its spokesman, Mogaji (Hon.) Seye Oladejo, the Lagos APC said Atiku’s comments, now echoed within the African Democratic Congress (ADC), were ironic coming from political actors it accused of repeatedly testing and straining democratic institutions in the past.
According to the party, the growing narrative of democratic collapse being promoted by the opposition is less about concern for democratic values and more about frustration following repeated electoral defeats. The APC described the ADC as a party uncertain of its ideological direction and leadership focus, adding that its public statements suggest fear rather than conviction.
The Lagos APC maintained that Nigeria’s democracy remains functional and resilient, noting that since May 29, 2023, democratic institutions have continued to operate within constitutional limits. It said elections have been conducted, courts have adjudicated disputes, the legislature has carried out oversight responsibilities, and citizens have continued to exercise their constitutional rights.
The party argued that the ability of opposition figures to speak freely, organise protests, and pursue legal challenges contradicts claims that democracy is under siege. It added that such freedoms are evidence of a system that remains intact rather than endangered.
The APC further alleged that the ADC is burdened by internal contradictions and competing personal ambitions, warning that the absence of a clear ideology could weaken the coalition from within. It said the growing rhetoric from opposition leaders reflects anxiety over future electoral prospects rather than genuine democratic concern.
According to the statement, the ruling party should not be blamed for what it described as the visible desperation of opposition figures who see upcoming elections as a final opportunity to remain politically relevant.
The Lagos APC also stressed that electoral victory and defeat are fundamental elements of democracy, noting that democracy is not threatened when personal ambitions are frustrated or when voters make choices that do not favour certain political actors.
The party expressed confidence that Nigeria’s democratic system remains firmly anchored under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, adding that ongoing reforms, though challenging, are being pursued within the framework of constitutional order, rule of law, and democratic accountability.
The APC advised Atiku Abubakar and his political allies to accept political realities, insisting that Nigeria is not in fear and that its democracy is not collapsing. It concluded that the real challenge, it said, lies with opposition forces unsettled by the changing political landscape and the loss of public confidence.
