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By Lawrence Agbo
Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Oba Maduabuchi, has warned that the absence of a strong and functional opposition poses a serious threat to Nigerian democracy.
Speaking on the state of the country’s political landscape, Maduabuchi emphasised that a vibrant opposition is critical to ensuring accountability and preventing unchecked dominance by the ruling party.
Maduabuchi highlighted the ongoing crisis within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), noting that unresolved leadership disputes and factional divisions have weakened the party at a time when preparations for upcoming elections are crucial.
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“It is not in the best interest of Nigerians that we do not have a good and vibrant opposition,” he said, stressing that the ruling party could otherwise operate without restraint.
He called on the Supreme Court of Nigeria to expedite hearings on cases affecting the PDP, particularly disputes over which faction represents the legitimate National Working Committee (NWC). Maduabuchi argued that a clear judicial pronouncement would restore stability, enable the party to prepare for elections, and strengthen the overall democratic process.
“This is a proper situation where the Court of Appeal would say, ‘forget your briefs, address us on these two points.’ Between Turaki and Abdulrahman, who is the proper, who emerged from the recognized NWC of Damagun? Once we know that, that settles the issue. Between the NWC of Turaki and that of Mohammed Abdulrahman, which of them emerged from the accepted National Working Committee of Damagun? Once the Supreme Court decides that, every other thing becomes academic. And I’m only urging the Supreme Court to do that in the interest of Nigeria. That’s the only way Nigeria can move forward.”
Maduabuchi concluded that without a strong opposition, the ruling party could dominate unchecked, weakening governance and undermining the democratic balance critical for the country’s political development.
