Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Femi Falana, has warned that Nigeria’s democracy is under serious threat, cautioning that ongoing legal and political developments could push the country toward a one-party state.
Speaking at the 5th Comrade Yinka Odumakin Memorial Lecture, Falana criticized the role of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), accusing it of misinterpreting a recent court ruling regarding internal party disputes.
According to him, what the court granted was an injunction restoring the status quo ante—a return to the position before the conflict—but this has allegedly been twisted to favor the ruling party. He argued that legal terms are now being used to mislead Nigerians, with both the judiciary and some senior lawyers contributing to the problem.
Falana described a troubling scenario where a political party member openly works against his own party, campaigns for another candidate, and still enjoys court protection from suspension or expulsion. He said such rulings weaken party discipline and undermine democratic structures.
He stressed that while no political party may be perfect, Nigerians must at least be allowed to choose freely among them, warning that current trends are eroding that fundamental right.
Drawing parallels with other African countries, Falana noted that opposition figures in places like Benin, Tanzania, and Uganda are often jailed, charged, or politically sidelined, adding that Nigeria appears to be heading in a similar direction.
He further warned that if the manipulation of courts and legal processes continues, Nigeria could face a situation where only one candidate emerges in the next presidential election, effectively eliminating real electoral competition.
Falana also raised concerns about inequality before the law, alleging that influential individuals receive preferential treatment while ordinary citizens remain in prolonged detention without trial. He insisted that the 1999 Constitution guarantees equality for all and must be upheld.
In a strong closing message, Falana cautioned that continued injustice and suppression could provoke public unrest. However, he emphasized that any movement for change must be properly organized to avoid descending into chaos.
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He urged Nigerians to begin organizing to defend democracy and resist forces he described as making a mockery of the system many fought and died to establish.Get The Full, Details. .
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