Former Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has sparked fresh political debate. He declared that certain individuals who once championed democracy under the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) have become worse in power than the late military ruler, General Sani Abacha.
In a strongly worded statement shared on his official X platform, Obi criticised what he described as a troubling reversal of democratic ideals. He called out former activists who fought against military rule in the 1990s.
“Yesterday’s defenders of democracy are today’s destroyers,” he said. “What an irony of history, that the acclaimed defenders of democracy and human rights who claimed to have fought for democracy during the era of General Sani Abacha now find themselves worse than the man they opposed.”
The Irony of Nigerian Democracy
Peter Obi added that the current development reflects how power can alter principles and expose character. He suggested that some leaders have abandoned the values they once publicly upheld.
“Today, General Sani Abacha, once presumed face of oppression, will be remembered as seemingly more democratic and more respectful of human rights than the so-called champions of activism from the NADECO days,” he stated.
The NADECO movement played a central role in the struggle for Nigerian democracy during the military era. It advocated for the restoration of civilian rule following the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election.
Accountability and the INEC ADC Delisting
The former Anambra State governor did not mention specific individuals. However, he insisted that current governance trends fall short of democratic expectations. He raised serious concerns about accountability and respect for civil liberties. Notably, President Bola Tinubu was a prominent member of NADECO during its peak.
Obi’s remarks come amid the INEC ADC delisting of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) National Working Committee (NWC) members from its official portal. Citing a court ruling, the electoral body said the action followed an order of the Court of Appeal. This order directs the commission to maintain the status quo until a leadership dispute is resolved.
Mixed Political Reactions
The action has generated mixed reactions across political circles. Supporters of the ruling party say INEC acted within its rights. Conversely, critics argue the commission is helping the ruling party achieve a one-party state.
Obi concluded his statement with a renewed call for reform, reiterating his long-standing message: “A New Nigeria is POssible.”
