The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of plotting to secure victory in the next presidential election “by hook or crook,” warning that such desperation could endanger Nigeria’s democracy.
In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Ini Ememobong, the Tanimu-Turaki-led PDP alleged that the APC is prepared to sacrifice democratic principles and institutions to retain power.
“It is now common knowledge that the ruling APC intends to win the next presidential elections at all costs, by hook or crook,” the party said, warning that “no boundary is respected, and nothing is too much to sacrifice — including derailing democracy, truncating the republic, and destroying Nigeria.”
The PDP expressed concern over what it described as rising political tension in the country, attributing it to “orchestrations and manipulations” targeted at opposition parties.
It further alleged that key national institutions, including the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), were being drawn into partisan activities that could undermine public confidence in the electoral process.
According to the party, INEC’s recent actions, particularly its decision on the leadership crisis within the African Democratic Congress (ADC), have heightened suspicion of bias.
“While INEC has statutory powers to act, the pattern and timing of its decisions raise legitimate concerns about a drift towards an uncontested election,” the PDP said.
The opposition party also warned of alleged plans to deregister opposition parties, describing such a move as a serious threat to plural democracy.
Calling for restraint, the PDP urged national institutions, especially INEC, to resist political pressure and act in the interest of the country.
“This is a critical moment in our democratic journey. Institutions must place the survival of democracy above all else and avoid actions that could stain their integrity for generations,” the statement added.
The party concluded with a call for a “country-first” approach, urging all stakeholders to safeguard Nigeria’s democracy amid what it described as growing political uncertainty.
