Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has accused President Bola Tinubu of eroding democratic principles and steering Nigeria toward authoritarian rule, warning that the situation could destabilize the wider West African region.
In a strongly worded statement on Monday, Atiku condemned what he described as a “state-sponsored siege” by the Department of State Services (DSS) on properties linked to former Attorney General Abubakar Malami. He alleged the action was politically motivated and carried out despite ongoing legal proceedings.
“This is not governance; it is intimidation,” Atiku said, accusing the administration of using state power to silence opposition voices.
He warned that democratic institutions are being weakened, with security agencies allegedly deployed to settle political scores rather than protect national interests. According to him, such actions signal a dangerous decline in democratic norms.
Atiku further alleged a coordinated effort by the government to suppress opposition figures ahead of the 2027 elections, claiming that individuals such as Nasir El-Rufai and Malami are being targeted to pressure them into aligning with the ruling party.
Describing the trend as “political coercion,” he warned that Nigeria risks becoming a de facto one-party state if dissent continues to be stifled.
Drawing parallels with past military-era politics, Atiku cautioned against what he called a repeat of authoritarian tendencies, urging Nigerians to remain vigilant.
He also accused the government of using anti-corruption agencies as tools of political pressure, alleging that some politicians are being forced to defect under threat of investigation or prosecution.
“No individual has the right to dominate the political system for personal ambition,” Atiku stated, emphasizing that democracy depends on freedom of choice and healthy competition.
He concluded by warning that suppressing opposition and limiting political alternatives could undermine the credibility of future elections and weaken Nigeria’s democratic foundations.