Tinubu Govt Gives Opposition Parties Space to Breathe
By Raphael Ekpang
In Nigeria’s ever-evolving political landscape, moments of tension often test the resilience of democratic institutions and the maturity of political actors. The recent developments involving the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the leadership dispute within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) have once again brought these dynamics into sharp focus. Yet, beneath the surface of anxiety and political rhetoric lies a broader narrative– one that suggests that, despite the turbulence, opposition parties still have room to operate, organize, and ultimately compete.
At the center of the current debate is INEC’s decision to adopt a cautious, non-interventionist stance regarding the leadership tussle between Senator David Mark and Nafiu Bala. Rather than rushing to endorse one faction, the electoral body has opted for what many political observers describe as a “wait-and-see” approach, allowing the judiciary to determine the legitimate leadership. While this decision has generated concern in some quarters, it reflects a standard institutional practice in democratic systems where electoral bodies avoid entanglement in intra-party disputes pending legal resolution.
For members and supporters of opposition parties, particularly within the ADC, this moment calls for perspective rather than panic. Political contests are rarely straightforward. They are shaped by strategy, patience, and an understanding of how power operates within established systems. INEC’s neutrality, rather than signaling exclusion, may in fact underscore the existence of procedural safeguards that prevent arbitrary interference.
Still, it would be naïve to ignore the broader concerns raised by opposition voices. There is a widely held perception that incumbency confers significant advantages–control over state institutions, influence within the security architecture, and access to financial resources. Critics argue that these tools are sometimes deployed in ways that can stifle dissent and weaken opposition structures. Whether through political maneuvering, legal challenges, or strategic alignments, the ruling establishment is often seen as leveraging its position to maintain dominance.
However, history shows that political strength is not measured solely by institutional control. Public sentiment remains a powerful force–one that cannot be manufactured or coerced indefinitely. Across Nigeria, there are indications of growing political awareness and engagement among citizens who are increasingly vocal about governance, accountability, and representation. This shifting mood suggests that the electorate is not merely a passive observer but an active participant in shaping the country’s political future.
For the ADC and other opposition parties, the current situation presents both a challenge and an opportunity. Internally, there is a need for cohesion, transparency, and credible leadership. Allegations of internal sabotage or “moles” must be addressed with evidence and due process to maintain the party’s integrity. Externally, the focus must remain on building trust with the electorate, articulating clear policy alternatives, and demonstrating readiness to govern.
The rhetoric of resistance, while energizing, must be balanced with strategic action. Democracy thrives not only on passion but on organization, discipline, and adherence to the rule of law. The courts, though sometimes criticized, remain a critical arena for resolving disputes and upholding constitutional order. Allowing legal processes to run their course is essential for maintaining legitimacy and avoiding unnecessary escalation.
There is also an important lesson in the perceived “pressure” on the ruling class. Even with significant control over political structures, no government is immune to public scrutiny or dissatisfaction. The idea that political authority ultimately derives from the people is not merely theoretical–it is the foundation of democratic governance. Elections, when conducted fairly, remain the ultimate test of that authority. Not the other way round.
In this context, calls for credible and transparent elections resonate strongly. Nigerians across regions and demographics share a common desire for a system where votes count and outcomes reflect the will of the people. Ensuring such a system is not the responsibility of one institution alone; it requires collective commitment from political parties, civil society, the media, and the electorate itself.
The assertion that every political party deserves space to “breathe” is, at its core, a reaffirmation of democratic pluralism. Nigeria’s multi-party system is designed to accommodate diverse viewpoints, foster healthy competition, and prevent the concentration of power. Protecting this diversity is essential not only for opposition parties but for the long-term stability of the nation’s democracy.
Ultimately, the current moment should not be seen solely through the lens of conflict. It is also a test of endurance, strategy, and faith in democratic processes. For opposition parties, the path forward may be challenging, but it is far from closed. As long as institutions function, courts adjudicate disputes, and citizens remain engaged, the political space, however constrained it may appear, remains open.
In the end, democracy is not defined by the absence of struggle but by the ability to navigate it. And in Nigeria today, that journey continues.
