Former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, on Tuesday declared that Nigerians who once resisted military rule are ready to confront any force undermining democracy, vowing a renewed struggle to safeguard the nation’s democratic values.
Speaking at the African Democratic Congress (ADC) convention in Abuja, Atiku said the country was drifting dangerously away from democratic ideals, accusing the Federal Government and electoral authorities of actions capable of eroding constitutional governance.
“Let the Federal Government know that we fought the military to bring democracy in this country, and we are going to fight them to bring democracy in this country,” he said.
The former presidential candidate lamented what he described as a collapse of critical sectors of national life, including the economy, security, education, and healthcare, insisting that urgent action was required to reverse the trend.
According to him, the current situation calls for collective resolve among Nigerians, particularly members of the ADC, to ensure what he termed a “genuine and sincere change” in leadership.
Atiku also took a swipe at the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), alleging that the electoral body was being manipulated to undermine democracy.
“It is clear, it is obvious, the evidence is there. INEC is being used to scuttle democracy in this country. We will not allow that to continue,” he stated.
He urged Nigerians to rise above ethnic and religious sentiments and unite in the struggle for credible governance, stressing that the future of younger generations was at stake.
Earlier, former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, had also criticized the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, accusing it of suppressing democratic rights and prioritizing wealth over the welfare of citizens.
Amaechi decried restrictions on freedom of assembly and alleged misuse of state institutions against Nigerians, warning that worsening economic conditions and insecurity could deepen public hardship.
Both leaders, however, emphasized the need for unity within the ADC and the emergence of a credible candidate capable of challenging the status quo, as political realignments continue ahead of future elections.