Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has expressed grave concerns about Nigeria’s democracy, calling the current situation with opposition parties and governance a “national emergency.”
Speaking at a national conference on strengthening democracy, El-Rufai highlighted the targeted destruction of opposition parties and the decline in governance quality. He stressed the need for opposition parties to unite and safeguard democracy, citing a recent poll showing 75% of registered voters may not vote in 2027.
He also raised alarm over efforts to weaken opposition parties, particularly the PDP and Labour Party, accusing internal factions of sabotaging them. El-Rufai urged opposition parties to merge into a strong platform, similar to the APC’s formation in 2014.
Criticizing the APC, El-Rufai said, “I no longer recognize the APC,” lamenting its abandonment of founding principles like fighting corruption and improving security. He also called for higher standards for party delegates and candidates to ensure better leadership.
Despite his frustrations, El-Rufai remains in the APC but challenged the opposition to unite and form a stronger alternative.