In a fervent address delivered at a significant gathering organised by the African Democratic Congress (ADC), the acting National Chairman of the Labour Party, Senator Nenadi Usman, emphasised the critical need for a principled and resilient opposition in Nigeria, underscoring its fundamental role in the nation’s democratic journey.
“Democracy, at its core, depends on the presence of dissent,” the speaker declared, advocating for robust debate and credible alternatives to thrive in the political landscape. Highlighting the current state of opposition voices in Nigeria, the speaker lamented the systematic efforts aimed at undermining these vital entities since the All Progressives Congress (APC) assumed power.
“The ruling party has become adept not just at consolidating power but at weakening every form of challenge to it,” Senator Nenadi Usman asserted, calling the actions of the APC a “domination masked as governance.” Criticising the ruling party’s tactics of harassment and intimidation toward rival parties, the speaker argued that such practices undermine the very essence of democracy and foster an environment of authoritarian control.
However, the address did not solely place blame on the APC. Senator Nenadi Usman candidly acknowledged that internal issues within opposition parties, including personal ambition and internal divisions, have significantly contributed to their weakening. “No amount of external sabotage can succeed if there is no internal decay,” the speaker noted, advocating for a renewed sense of patriotism among opposition leaders.
Emphasising the importance of unity, she called for a collective effort among opposition groups to rebuild and strengthen their presence in the political arena. “We must rebuild the opposition—not as scattered entities chasing relevance—but as a united force driven by shared values and sound policy ideas,” they urged.
Senator Usman also encouraged opposition parties to not only critique the current administration’s failures, such as economic mismanagement and worsening inequality, but to come prepared with tangible solutions that resonate with the hopes and aspirations of the Nigerian people.
Quoting notable figures like Nelson Mandela and Barack Obama, she reinforced the notion that a strong democracy is reliant on a strong opposition. “Not just criticism, but conviction. Not just slogans, but substance. Not just ambition, but action,” they stated.
As the gathering concluded, Senator Nenadi Usman expressed hope that the event would inspire a renewed commitment among all opposition forces in Nigeria to defend and advance the democratic principles that the citizens deserve.
