The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of undermining Nigeria’s democracy through the alleged militarisation and manipulation of recent bye-elections across the country.

In a communiqué issued at the end of its 102nd National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting held on Monday in Abuja, the opposition party claimed that the APC deployed intimidation, inducement, and violence during the polls, thereby threatening the country’s multiparty system.

“NEC expresses grave concern over the escalated violence, intimidation and manipulation that marred the conduct of the recent bye-elections,” the statement read. “It notes the unacceptable militarization of the electoral process in Kaduna, Taraba and Zamfara States, and declares that this action by the APC is a confirmation of its desire to turn our country into a totalitarian One-Party State, which is a clear and present danger to democracy and the corporate existence of our country.”

The communiqué, presented by PDP’s National Publicity Secretary, Hon. Debo Ologunagba, said the party remained committed to defending democracy and ensuring free and fair elections in Nigeria.

The PDP NEC stressed that the reported irregularities in the polls were not isolated incidents but part of a pattern that must be resisted.

“Our democracy cannot survive if the will of the people is continually subverted through the abuse of state institutions and security apparatus,” it added.

The meeting, which reviewed the state of the nation, also commended party stakeholders and members for their resilience despite what it described as “provocations and hostile political environment.”

The PDP vowed to continue mobilising Nigerians to protect democratic institutions ahead of the 2027 general elections.

“NEC assures Nigerians that the PDP, working with other patriotic forces, will do everything within the ambit of the law to safeguard the democratic process and ensure the right of citizens to freely choose their leaders without fear or coercion,” the communiqué stated.

The NEC adjourned its sitting to reconvene for its 103rd meeting on Wednesday, October 15, 2025.