Ojudu warns of threat to democracy, urges action against violence
A former presidential adviser and senator, Babafemi Ojudu, has warned that rising political violence, ethnic suspicion and declining public confidence in state institutions threaten Nigeria’s democracy and national unity ahead of the 2027 general elections. Ojudu called on political leaders, civil society organisations, labour unions, professional bodies, traditional and religious leaders,…
Former presidential advisor and senator Babafemi Ojudu has issued a dire warning about the erosion of Nigeria's democracy, citing rising political violence, ethnic tensions, and waning public trust in governmental bodies as threats to the nation's unity ahead of the 2027 elections. In a statement on Friday, Ojudu implored political leaders, civil society groups, labor unions, professional organizations, traditional and religious authorities, journalists, and students to join forces across party affiliations, demanding a peaceful and credible electoral process.
Recent incidents of violence, including attacks on campaign teams of former presidential hopefuls Omoyele Sowore in Ado-Ekiti and Peter Obi in Calabar, as well as an alleged assault on the African Democratic Congress (ADC) campaign convoy in Kebbi State, have raised concerns. Ojudu denounced similar acts by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), such as disrupting Vice President Kashim Shettima's campaign visit to Lafia and burning political posters in Kankara, Katsina State.
He emphasized that every Nigerian has the right to demand a change of government through the ballot while every political party must be permitted to campaign without interference.
The former senator expressed deep concern over the Federal High Court's decision to overturn the ADC's leadership and Atiku Abubakar's presidential nomination, urging the party to appeal the ruling fairly and swiftly. Ojudu's comments serve as a stark reminder of Nigeria's tumultuous political past, drawing parallels to the disputed 1965 Western Region election, the 1983 election controversies, and the annulment of the 1993 election, which all contributed to political instability and the collapse of democratic institutions.
He cautioned that Nigeria's political history illustrates that disputed elections and eroded trust in democratic institutions can have catastrophic consequences, threatening the very fabric of the nation. Ojudu urged candidates to reject ethnic incitement, support the right of political opponents to campaign, and pledge to accept the outcome of credible elections fairly.
He also emphasized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's responsibility to ensure impartial treatment of all Nigerians by state institutions throughout the election period.
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