The Joint Action on Democracy (JAD) has raised a serious alarm, accusing prominent Nigerian politicians, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and ex-Kaduna State Governor Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, of actions that undermine the country’s democratic governance. In a statement issued by its President, Ambassador Moses Oriri, on Wednesday, the group emphasized the importance of holding these politicians accountable for any harm their actions may cause to the stability of the nation.
The statement named several high-profile political figures as part of the alleged group planning to destabilize the current administration of President Bola Tinubu. Among those named were former presidential candidate Peter Obi, former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi, Governor of Sokoto State Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, and former Attorney General Abubakar Malami. The group expressed grave concerns over the participation of these politicians in a recent event, which they believe could spark violent protests aimed at destabilizing the administration.
JAD’s statement described these politicians as “failed leaders” who, according to the group, are unable to come to terms with the reforms initiated by President Tinubu. These reforms, which the group claims are already showing positive results, seem to have triggered anger and resentment among the named politicians. JAD accused them of attempting to undermine the democratic process through anti-government activities, as they reportedly seek to incite public unrest due to their fear of losing influence in future elections.
The group noted that these politicians, who have held significant positions in the past, should be held accountable for their actions, which have allegedly contributed to violence and insecurity in various parts of the country. JAD specifically highlighted the role of Aminu Waziri Tambuwal during his tenure as Governor of Sokoto State, accusing him of enabling the rise of banditry. Tambuwal’s tenure was marred by widespread insecurity, with reports of escalating violence and criminal activities under his watch. JAD further criticized El-Rufai for allegedly making payments to herders during his time as governor, a move the group claims contributed to the growth of kidnapping for ransom and other forms of banditry across the country.
The Joint Action on Democracy expressed deep concern that these opposition politicians might be attempting to create a “failed state” scenario on a national scale. According to the group, the likes of Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi have previously stirred public sentiment against the government, and they are likely to continue doing so regardless of who holds office as President. JAD pointed to recent statements from these individuals, who referred to the current government as “weak” and suggested the formation of a political alliance aimed at undermining the administration.
JAD warned that these actions were not only reckless but also dangerous for Nigeria’s democracy, accusing these politicians of inciting unrest and pushing the country towards further instability. The group expressed particular concern over the alleged conspiracy to create an alliance that could destabilize the democratic process, pointing out that their past record showed a tendency to exploit public dissatisfaction to fuel unrest.
The statement concluded with a call to the relevant authorities, urging them to take swift and decisive action against the named individuals, particularly El-Rufai. JAD recommended placing the politicians on a watchlist and taking steps to prevent any further attempts to destabilize the country’s political landscape. According to the group, these actions must be taken to safeguard Nigeria’s democracy and prevent the rise of any threats to the nation’s peace and stability.
As the political climate in Nigeria continues to heat up, the accusations from the Joint Action on Democracy serve as a stark reminder of the challenges the country faces in maintaining democratic principles amidst a deeply polarized political environment. The next steps will be crucial in determining how the government handles these claims and whether the actions of these politicians will have any lasting impact on the future of Nigeria’s democracy.