Abdusamad Dasuki Issues Stark Warning on Threats to Nigeria’s Democracy
Abdusamad Dasuki, a member of the House of Representatives representing the Tambuwal/Kebe Federal Constituency in Sokoto State, has labeled the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), under Professor Joash Ampitan, as an existential threat to Nigeria’s multiparty democracy. He accuses the commission of collusion with certain forces aimed at suppressing opposition parties and transforming Nigeria into a one-party state. Dasuki made these comments on Wednesday while receiving his membership card for the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in the Dogon Daji/Salah constituency of Sokoto, an event attended by numerous supporters, including members who recently defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and other political groups.
Concerns Over Political Deterioration
During his speech, Dasuki cautioned the enthusiastic crowd, highlighting ongoing political developments that appear to be designed to silence opposition voices and undermine the foundational principles of democracy. He specifically referenced INEC’s refusal to recognize the leadership of the ADC, led by David Mark, which he sees as a crucial component of a broader strategy to dismantle democratic plurality.
Alarming Trends in Political Suppression
Dasuki asserted that actions by INEC are intended to weaken the opposition, dismantle the multi-party system, and ultimately establish the All Progressives Congress (APC) as not only the predominant party but also as the sole entity capable of presenting a viable candidate for the upcoming 2027 presidential election. He emphasized that the struggle is not merely about a single party or leadership debate but is fundamentally about the health of Nigeria’s democratic fabric. Dasuki warned that if unchecked, such maneuvers could jeopardize the democratic advances Nigeria has achieved over the years.
Call for Vigilance Against Erosion of Democracy
He characterized the refusal to acknowledge legitimate opposition leadership as a deliberate part of a broader design to sideline alternative viewpoints, thereby ensuring that only one party survives in the political arena leading into 2027. Dasuki urged the public, civil society organizations, and the international community to remain vigilant, calling on all stakeholders to defend democratic institutions and uphold the rule of law. “We must unite to counter any efforts to undermine our democracy. Nigeria belongs to everyone, not just a few who seek to monopolize power,” he asserted.
Launching a Youth-Centric Political Initiative
Dasuki revealed that his decision to join ADC was driven by a desire to collaborate with like-minded individuals committed to addressing Nigeria’s pressing socio-economic and political challenges. He encouraged the residents of Tambuwal/Kebbi Federal Constituency, Sokoto, and the wider Nigerian populace to stand firm as they embark on this new political journey aimed at steering the country toward a more prosperous and democratic future. He emphasized the importance of promoting a youth-centric agenda that prioritizes youth involvement in governance at all levels.
Emphasis on Youth Participation in Governance
At the rally, Dasuki, alongside party leaders, formally welcomed the new members into the ADC. The event drew a considerable number of youth groups from across the constituency and state. These groups expressed their commitment to the ADC, citing urgent issues such as rising insecurity and deteriorating economic conditions that have intensified the hardships faced by the populace.
A Shift Away from the PDP
It is noteworthy that Congressman Dasuki officially resigned from the PDP on March 15, 2026, submitting his resignation via a letter to the Dogon Daji/Sarah Constituency Chairman. In his resignation letter, he highlighted a prolonged internal leadership crisis, stating that it had severely undermined the party’s capacity to function effectively as an opposition platform. He further pointed out that this crisis had rendered the PDP incapable of providing a reliable and organized opposition necessary for the strengthening of democracy.
