Former Vice President and presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Atiku Abubakar, has raised fresh concerns over what he described as growing threats to Nigeria’s multiparty democracy, alleging that recent developments surrounding the registration of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) point to a deliberate attempt to weaken opposition parties ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Atiku’s reaction followed the decision of the Federal High Court sitting in Lokoja, Kogi State, which set aside its earlier judgment directing the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to register the NDC as a political party.

The court held that the Peace Movement Party, whose interests were affected by the suit, ought to have been joined in the proceedings before the judgment was delivered. Consequently, the court restored all parties to the positions they occupied before the December 10, 2025 judgment.

Responding through a statement issued by the Atiku Media Office, the former Vice President said the ruling reinforces what he believes is an orchestrated effort to frustrate the emergence of viable opposition platforms capable of challenging the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 elections.

He warned that attempts to deny Nigerians a broad range of political choices could undermine democratic governance and erode public confidence in the electoral process.

According to Atiku, democracy thrives when citizens are free to associate politically, support parties of their choice and participate in elections without intimidation or institutional obstacles.

He argued that any move perceived as limiting political competition or shrinking the democratic space could have serious consequences for national stability.

“Nigerians are now seeing the true colours of President Bola Tinubu, who pretends to be a democrat, but whose actions and those of his agents contradict the commitment to free and fair elections,” he said.

The former Vice President maintained that political popularity should be tested through transparent elections rather than by weakening rival parties.

He challenged President Tinubu to demonstrate confidence in his administration’s performance by allowing a level playing field for all political parties ahead of the next general election.

Atiku also drew comparisons with previous administrations, noting that despite fierce political competition during the administrations of former Presidents Muhammadu Buhari and Goodluck Jonathan, opposition parties were not prevented from participating in the democratic process.

He urged the President to uphold democratic principles by ensuring that every political group seeking registration or participation in elections receives fair treatment in accordance with the law.

Beyond his criticism of the executive, Atiku appealed to members of the judiciary to remain independent and resist any form of political pressure capable of undermining public trust in the courts.

Describing the judiciary as the last hope of the common man, he cautioned judges against allowing themselves to become instruments in political battles, stressing that the integrity of the judicial system must be protected above partisan interests.

He further warned that while governments may change with elections, the credibility of the judiciary remains a permanent pillar of Nigeria’s constitutional democracy and should not be compromised for short-term political gains.

The comments come as political activities continue to gather momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections, with opposition parties intensifying consultations, coalition talks and legal battles that could shape the country’s political landscape in the coming months.