Former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Olabode George, has called for stronger opposition in Nigeria, warning that democracy cannot thrive without it.
In a statement issued on Monday, George reflected on Nigeria’s political and economic trajectory, stressing that democracy without dissenting voices risks sliding into dictatorship.
“Democracy thrives on a plurality of ideas, not the silence of the graveyard,” he said.
George condemned what he described as growing intolerance toward opposition figures, citing the reported harassment of Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State and Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State.
“The harassment of these governors is not a mere political skirmish; it is a calculated assault on federalism,” he warned.
He argued that intimidating elected state leaders for holding contrary views signals a drift toward authoritarianism and undermines Nigeria’s federal structure.
George also urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure fairness and transparency in future elections.
“The credibility of our democracy rests squarely on INEC. The era of miracle results and technical glitches must end,” he declared.
On economic matters, George cautioned the Federal Government against tax policies that could harm businesses and ordinary citizens.
“While revenue generation is important, it must not come at the cost of the people’s survival,” he said.
Drawing lessons from Venezuela, he noted that excessive taxation and suppression of opposition can destabilise even resource-rich nations.
“Venezuela reminds us that when leadership prioritises power over the people, nations crumble,” George added.
He concluded by urging Nigerian leaders to protect democratic institutions, respect opposing views, and prioritise citizens’ welfare.
“The soul of our nation depends on it,” he said.
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