Atiku accuses Tinubu democracy erosion, warning of authoritarian drift and political intimidation ahead of 2027 elections

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has accused President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of undermining democratic institutions and steering Nigeria towards authoritarian rule, citing recent actions by security agencies as evidence of a troubling trend.

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In a strongly worded statement issued on Monday, Atiku condemned what he described as a state-backed operation by the Department of State Services targeting properties linked to former Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami.

Atiku alleged that operatives sealed Malami’s residences and businesses despite ongoing legal proceedings, describing the move as “lawless, vindictive, and politically motivated.”

“This is not governance. This is intimidation. This is a regime weaponising state power to silence dissent,” he said.

The criticism forms part of a broader warning by the former vice president, a leading figure in the African Democratic Congress, who argued that Nigeria is witnessing a dangerous erosion of democratic norms.

Atiku accuses Tinubu democracy erosion in what he described as a coordinated effort to weaken opposition voices ahead of the 2027 general elections.

He further claimed that state institutions are increasingly being deployed for political purposes rather than national security, warning that such actions could undermine public trust and electoral credibility.

“What we are seeing is the naked abuse of power. This is how democracies decline,” he said.

Atiku also alleged that prominent political figures, including Nasir el-Rufai and Malami, were being targeted as part of a wider strategy to pressure opposition leaders.

He suggested that such actions risk narrowing Nigeria’s political space, warning against the emergence of a dominant party system that could weaken democratic competition.

Drawing historical parallels, Atiku cautioned against repeating past political mistakes, referencing periods in Nigeria’s history marked by limited political plurality.

He also raised concerns about the alleged use of anti-corruption agencies to influence political alignments, describing such practices as detrimental to democratic governance.

“No individual has the right to control the destiny of millions for personal ambition,” he said, urging adherence to democratic principles and the rule of law.

The presidency has not issued an official response to the allegations at the time of filing this report.

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Political analysts note that the exchange reflects rising tensions within Nigeria’s political landscape as parties begin early positioning ahead of the next electoral cycle.