Seriake Dickson, National Leader of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), warned President Bola Tinubu that certain actions could shrink Nigeria’s democratic space.
He stressed that safeguarding democratic gains requires respect for the constitution, judicial independence, a free press, and an independent electoral body.
Dickson noted that when constitutional institutions are weakened, there is little distinction between a civilian dictator and a military ruler.
He described democracy as a marathon, emphasizing commitment to the rule of law, democratic principles, a free and independent media, an impartial judiciary, and an electoral body that enjoys public trust.
Without these pillars, he said, there is little difference between a civilian and a military dictator.
The NDC leader acknowledged Nigeria’s transition from military rule but cautioned that elected leaders must not erode democratic institutions while professing to uphold democracy.
He observed that democratic values face growing pressure across Africa, especially within ECOWAS, warning that Nigeria’s regional leadership is weakening.
He blamed the APC government’s dysfunctional foreign policy for ECOWAS’ decline, citing the rise of breakaway groups like the Alliance of Sahel States as evidence of weakened Nigerian influence.
Dickson urged President Tinubu to prevent state institutions from being used for partisan ends, warning that governments seen as oppressive or above the constitution lose public trust.
He added that when a government or party views itself as larger than the nation, the constitution, judiciary, and other democratic institutions, it forfeits legitimate and popular support—a major threat to democracy in ECOWAS and Africa.
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