Lagos: Former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Olabode George, has stressed the need for a viable opposition to strengthen Nigeria’s democracy.
In a statement on Monday, George warned that democracy without opposition risks sliding into dictatorship. “Democracy thrives on a plurality of ideas, not the silence of the graveyard,” he said.
He condemned what he described as growing intolerance of dissenting voices, citing the reported harassment of Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed and Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde as a threat to Nigeria’s federal structure. “The harassment of these governors is not a mere political skirmish; it is a calculated assault on federalism,” he added.
George cautioned that intimidation of elected leaders and policies aimed at weakening opposition parties could erode democratic values. He urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure fairness and transparency in future elections, insisting that “the era of miracle results and technical glitches must end.”
On economic matters, he advised the Federal Government against tax policies that could stifle businesses and citizens. He warned that excessive taxation and suppression of opposition, as seen in Venezuela, could destabilise even resource-rich nations.George called on leaders to protect democratic institutions, respect opposing views, and prioritise the welfare of Nigerians. “The soul of our nation depends on it,” he concluded.