Political activist and former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Comrade Timi Frank, has raised the alarm over what he describes as a dangerous escalation in political interference that could imperil Nigeria’s democracy and push the nation toward instability.
In a strongly worded statement issued in Abuja, Frank accused the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the ruling APC of actions capable of igniting a full-blown political crisis, particularly in light of recent developments within the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
At the heart of the controversy is INEC’s decision to withhold recognition from contending leadership factions within the ADC—one aligned with former Senate President David Mark and another led by Nafiu Bala Gombe—pending the outcome of a suit before a Federal High Court in Abuja.
Frank described the move as not only troubling but symptomatic of a broader pattern of interference in opposition parties.
“This is no longer an isolated incident. What we are witnessing is a systematic erosion of democratic space,” he said.
He warned that the deepening crisis across opposition parties signals a calculated attempt to weaken political alternatives ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“When institutions meant to safeguard democracy begin to tilt the playing field, the consequences can be explosive,” Frank cautioned.
Drawing parallels with Nigeria’s dark past, he likened the unfolding developments to the era of military rule under General Sani Abacha, when dissent was stifled and democratic structures were hollowed out.
“These are familiar signs. We have seen this script before—and we know how dangerously it can end,” he said.
Frank also expressed unease over what he termed a creeping authoritarian drift under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, warning that recent actions raise red flags about the future of democratic governance.
“There is a growing perception that power is being consolidated at all costs. That path is dangerous for any democracy,” he stated.
According to him, internal crises rocking major opposition parties—including the PDP, Labour Party, SDP, and NNPP—are not coincidental but part of a widening pattern that now threatens to engulf the ADC.
He further alleged that the judiciary is being drawn into political battles in ways that undermine public confidence.
“The integrity of the courts is being tested. When judicial processes appear compromised, democracy itself is at risk,” he said.
Frank called on the international community to take a closer look at developments in Nigeria, urging decisive steps to protect democratic institutions.
He specifically advocated sanctions, including visa restrictions, against individuals found to be undermining the electoral and judicial process.
“Accountability must be enforced. Democracy cannot survive where impunity thrives,” he declared.
He also raised concerns over what he described as increasing pressure on opposition figures through arrests and legal challenges.
“The use of state instruments to intimidate dissenting voices is a dangerous trend that must be halted,” he warned.
Projecting a grim outlook if the situation remains unchecked, Frank said Nigeria could be edging toward a volatile political future.
“If this trajectory continues, we may be heading toward a crisis that will be difficult to reverse,” he said.
He urged Nigerians across all sectors—civil society, labour unions, professional bodies, and traditional institutions—to rise in defence of democratic values.
“This is a defining moment. Silence now could come at a very high cost,” he stressed.
Frank also appealed to global democratic actors, particularly the United States, to remain engaged.
“The world must not look away. Nigeria’s democracy is too important to fail,” he added.
Reaffirming the resilience of Nigerians, he concluded with a call for vigilance and collective action.
“Our history shows that Nigerians will always stand against attempts to undermine their freedoms. The right to choose must be protected—now and always.”
ADC Crisis: Timi Frank Warns of Looming Democratic Breakdown, Urges Global Attention
