A chieftain of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Eze Chikamnayo, has accused President Bola Tinubu of launching a deliberate campaign against opposition political parties in Nigeria. In an interview on Arise Television on Monday, Chikamnayo expressed deep concern over what he described as targeted actions aimed at weakening the opposition. He specifically referenced a recent Federal High Court judgment in Lokoja, Kogi State, which nullified the earlier decision to register the NDC as a political party. The court’s ruling, he argued, was part of a broader strategy to suppress dissent and consolidate power.
Chikamnayo emphasized that the decision to strike down the NDC’s registration was not just a legal matter but a political one. He described the judgment as “notorious and very dangerous,” suggesting it undermines the democratic process. He urged President Tinubu to desist from interfering with opposition parties, warning that continued suppression could lead to instability. “All it takes for peaceful change is for him to allow democracy to happen,” Chikamnayo said. “If he makes peaceful change impossible, a violent change will be inevitable.”
The legal battle over the NDC’s registration has been ongoing for months. Initially, the Federal High Court in Lokoja had ruled in favor of the party, directing INEC to register it as a political entity. However, the court later set aside that judgment, prompting criticism from opposition figures. Chikamnayo and other NDC leaders argue that the reversal was politically motivated, designed to prevent the party from participating in future elections. They believe the judiciary is being used as a tool to silence political rivals.
The NDC, which has been seeking formal recognition since its formation, remains determined to challenge the decision. Legal experts have noted that the case raises important questions about judicial independence and the role of the courts in political disputes. While INEC has maintained its position on party registration criteria, opposition leaders argue that the process is being manipulated to favor ruling party interests.
This development comes amid growing concerns about the state of democracy in Nigeria. Critics say the government’s actions against opposition parties are eroding public trust in the electoral system. As Nigeria prepares for upcoming elections, the ability of opposition parties to operate freely will be a key factor in determining the credibility of the democratic process. The NDC’s struggle for recognition highlights the broader challenges facing political pluralism in the country. The outcome of this legal battle could set a precedent for how political parties are treated in the future.
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