A return to Venezuela-style repression of dissent and weakening of democratic institutions is a real possibility, according to Chief Bode George, a former deputy national chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
According to the Daily Independent, the Atona Oodua of Yorubaland issued a press statement yesterday in which he expressed concern about the current state of affairs in Nigeria and emphasized that diverse perspectives are essential for a healthy democracy.
We are at a crossroads in our nation’s history, the declaration says. Fear permeates the atmosphere, not due to a lack of promise, but rather to the steady disintegration of the shared democratic principles upon which our nation’s foundation rests.
There has been a disturbing trend of animosity toward those who disagree, and this must be addressed first.
“The targeting of Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State and Seyi Makinde of Oyo State is more than just a political disagreement; it’s a deliberate attack on the federalist framework of our country. The perilous descent toward a one-party state is signaled when state executives are threatened because they possess differing opinions.
Diversity of opinion, not deathbed quiet, is what makes democracies strong. A startling chasm opens up in the halls of power while our people face unseen levels of suffering. Massive donations to First Lady Remi Tinubu’s private library show a complete lack of awareness of the existing economic situation. Such money would have been better spent alleviating the crushing poverty that every Nigerian must face on a daily basis in a country where millions go to sleep hungry.
Instead of preserving traditions while the people endure hardship, leaders should prioritize service and sacrifice.
Also, we’d like to extend an invitation to Prof. Joash Amupitan (SAN), who is the current chairman of the INEC, to
You are personally responsible for ensuring that our democracy is credible. You need to be fair and just. There can be no more “miracle results” and technological failures. Elections in Nigeria should be open, free, and fair, with the result being decided by the votes cast rather than by any kind of “arrangement.”
George declared, “To the government of President Bola Tinubu, we urge a rethink of current trajectories” in response to the new tax law. Rather than empowering firms and individuals, current tax rules are stifling them.
Income is important, but it can’t be sacrificed to ensure the existence of the people. Even more troubling is the apparent attempt to establish conditions that violate the right to exist of opposition parties. The absence of a strong opposition in a democracy makes it look more like a dictatorship.
“We live in a global village, and we must learn from the shadows of history,” the PDP leader stated when asked why Nigeria should take a page out of Venezuela’s playbook. The results of hyper-taxation, opposition repression, and democratic institution degradation are plain to observe in Venezuela. The collapse of Venezuela is a sobering warning that authoritarian rule can bring down even the wealthiest countries.
“I think we should take a different road. Let us guarantee an impeachable election process, safeguard our governors, and honor the money in the pockets of our citizens. Our nation’s very essence hangs in the balance.
About the Author
