Political activist and former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Timi Frank, has raised the alarm over reported moves to deregister the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and other opposition parties, describing the development as a dangerous threat to Nigeria’s multi-party democracy.
In a strongly worded statement on Tuesday, Frank warned that any attempt to eliminate major opposition platforms ahead of the 2027 general elections could trigger a national crisis that may be difficult to contain.
He claimed the reported Court of Appeal ruling, which allegedly paves the way for deregistration, forms part of a broader strategy by the Bola Tinubu administration to weaken opposition forces and consolidate power.
Frank particularly questioned the circumstances surrounding the judgment delivered by Justice Peter Lifu of the Federal High Court. He described it as a “mystery judgment” delivered suddenly without prior notice to the parties involved.
“The judgment came suddenly without prior notice to the parties involved,” Frank alleged. “From the information available to us, it appeared that the judgment had been prepared elsewhere and simply delivered by the court.”
He further claimed that neither the parties nor their legal representatives were informed in advance, alleging that the ruling was “plotted and cooked up” to achieve a predetermined political outcome. Frank suggested external influences, including the Office of the Attorney-General, may have scripted the judgment.
The activist also expressed deep concern over perceived erosion of judicial independence. He alleged a troubling relationship between some members of the executive and the judiciary, citing instances where ministers allegedly build houses, provide vehicles, and extend other benefits to judges.
“There are increasing concerns among Nigerians about the role of some judges and whether they are acting independently or under the influence of government officials,” he said.
Frank singled out a particular Federal High Court judge known for handling politically sensitive cases, claiming the judge is frequently assigned matters involving opposition parties.
He described the ADC as a national movement with broad appeal that cuts across ethnic, religious, and regional lines, and warned that crippling such a platform would undermine Nigerians’ constitutional rights to free association and political participation.
Frank also alleged that the actions reflect an attempt to prevent certain contenders, particularly northern candidates, from fully participating in the 2027 presidential election.
“Nigeria is a country of over 200 million people. Any desperate attempt to turn the country into a one-party state could trigger unrest and a crisis that nobody can control,” he warned.
The former APC spokesman called on President Donald Trump of the United States and the international community to urgently intervene to protect Nigeria’s democracy. He urged civil society groups, religious leaders, youth organisations, and professional bodies to defend the country’s democratic institutions.
Frank maintained that the issue transcends partisan politics and touches on the fundamental future of democratic governance in Africa’s most populous nation.
A story of courage, wonder, and the transformative power of self-belief; perfect for readers aged 10+ who love adventure. To place order: +234 806 130 3237 | +234 803 582 0870 OR Tap the link to grab a copy:https://www.zeekapublish.com/product/the-magical-life-of-anna
