ADC Crisis Could Destabilise Nigeria’s Democracy, Says Timi Frank

A former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress, Timi Frank, has warned that recent developments surrounding the African Democratic Congress, ADC, could undermine Nigeria’s democratic system if not urgently addressed.

Frank also urged the United States government, including President Donald Trump, to intervene in safeguarding democratic processes in the country.

In a statement issued in Abuja on Thursday, Frank reacted to the decision by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to suspend recognition of the ADC leadership, including that of David Mark, as well as a rival leadership claim by Nafiu Bala Gombe, pending the outcome of a suit before a Federal High Court in Abuja.

He alleged that the development reflects a growing pattern of interference in opposition parties ahead of the 2027 general elections.

“INEC and the APC-led government appear to be taking steps that threaten the very foundation of our democracy,” Frank said.

He warned that such actions could escalate political tensions in the country.

Frank further claimed that recent political developments suggest a coordinated effort to weaken opposition parties.

According to him, the situation bears similarities to events during the regime of former Head of State, Sani Abacha, which he said was characterised by attempts to suppress democratic institutions.

“Recent developments raise serious concerns about the future of democratic governance in Nigeria,” he said.

He also alleged that internal crises within opposition parties, including the Peoples Democratic Party, Labour Party, Social Democratic Party, and New Nigeria Peoples Party, may have been influenced by external forces.

Frank also accused the judiciary of being used to frustrate opposition parties through questionable rulings.

“The courts have been used to thwart democratic processes with frivolous decisions,” he alleged.

Frank called on the international community to impose sanctions, including visa restrictions, on electoral and judicial officials found culpable in actions that undermine democratic processes.

He warned that continued political pressure on opposition figures through arrests and legal actions could push the country towards instability.

“Nigeria is heading towards a crisis that may be difficult to contain if urgent steps are not taken,” he said.

Frank also appealed to Nigerians and civil society groups to speak out in defence of democratic values.

He specifically called on organisations including the Nigerian Bar Association, Nigeria Labour Congress, Trade Union Congress, Nigeria Medical Association, and the Inter-Party Advisory Council to take a stand.

“Freedom of association and the right to choose must be protected. Enough is enough,” he said.

He added that Nigerians have historically resisted anti-democratic tendencies and would continue to defend democratic institutions.