By James Ojochegbe
In a bold and incendiary accusation that could shake Nigeria’s political establishment, Senator Aminu Tambuwal has accused President Bola Tinubu’s administration of orchestrating a systematic campaign to destabilise opposition parties.
Tambuwal, a former governor and leading figure in the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition, made the explosive claims during an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today, painting a grim picture of democracy under siege.
“You don’t need a crystal ball to see what’s going on,” Tambuwal declared. “Across the board, political parties are being torn apart from within—and this government is not just watching, it’s pulling the strings.”
Though careful with his wording, the message was clear: the ruling party, under Tinubu’s leadership, is allegedly engaging in covert strategies to weaken and fracture rival political movements, threatening Nigeria’s multiparty system.
Tambuwal also addressed his recent invitation by the police—an invitation that many see as politically motivated. “If I’m invited, I will honour it,” he said. “But let’s be clear: when the instruments of state begin to hover around opposition voices, it sends a chilling message.”
This isn’t the first time Tambuwal has challenged Tinubu’s leadership, but Friday’s remarks mark a significant escalation. He didn’t mince words: “I’m shocked by how this country is being run—but not disappointed. I saw this coming. That’s why I campaigned against him.”
His comments come at a time when several opposition parties are experiencing internal implosions, raising fears that the nation’s democratic checks and balances are being eroded from the inside.
Political analysts warn that if Tambuwal’s allegations hold any truth, the implications are dire—not just for opposition parties, but for Nigeria’s democracy as a whole.
As the nation watches with growing unease, one question looms large: Is political competition in Nigeria still fair, or is the ground being quietly pulled out from under the opposition?
