A Call to Action: Resisting the Tyranny of Desperation – For a New Nigerian Dawn
My fellow Nigerians, members of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), and all patriots who yearn for a truly democratic and prosperous nation, it is time to face a harsh truth. The shadows of desperation are lengthening over our beloved country, cast by an administration that, having failed us on critical fronts, now seeks to shrink our democratic space and silence dissenting voices.
The recent revelations surrounding Malam Nasir El-Rufai and the subtle, yet insidious, maneuvers against the ADC are not isolated incidents. They are symptoms of a deeper malaise, a calculated strategy to dismantle the very foundations of our multi-party democracy and pave the way for an autocratic grip on power. We are witnessing, in real-time, the transformation of our democratic aspirations into a dangerous game of political chess, where state instruments are deployed not for the people’s welfare, but for the persecution of opponents.
This administration, which came into power with promises of renewed hope, has instead delivered a reign of insecurity that continues to claim lives and destabilize communities. While our citizens live in fear, the very security apparatus meant to protect them is allegedly being weaponized against political rivals. This is an unforgivable betrayal of public trust.
Economically, the situation is equally dire. We have been subjected to “wicked economic policies and harsh taxes,” borne out of the unilateral removal of petrol subsidies, which has pushed millions deeper into poverty. Yet, instead of addressing these fundamental failures, the focus has shifted to consolidating power, to suffocating any legitimate challenge to its authority. The goal, it seems, is not to uplift Nigerians but to manipulate the electoral process, control the entire Nigerian system, and – let us be clear – lay the groundwork for a perilous third-term agenda, rubber-stamped by a compliant National Assembly and a compromised judiciary.
This is not the Nigeria we fought for. This is not the democracy we deserve.
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) is emerging as more than just a political party; it is a new template for Nigeria’s political future. It is a platform where the bitter lessons of our past political practices will become our new political fortune. We envision a new political atmosphere – one built on genuine engagement, transparent governance, and respect for the rule of law, not on coercion and intimidation. We believe in a Nigeria where diverse voices are heard, where opposition is seen as a vital component of democracy, not an enemy to be crushed.
ADC members, your resolve is being tested. Your commitment to a better Nigeria is being challenged. Do not waver. Let the “political honey badger” spirit inspire us all – to be resilient, to stand firm, and to walk away stronger from every attempt to suppress our collective will. Your dedication to building a formidable opposition, spreading like a “wildfire” across Nigeria, is the beacon of hope that this nation desperately needs. Let every attempt to intimidate you, every attack on your gatherings, every negative campaign be met with renewed determination and unwavering unity.
To the entire Nigerian populace, this is a moment of reckoning. We must recognize the desperate actions of this administration for what they are: an attempt to steal your voice, your future, and your democratic rights. We must resist any and all efforts to shrink our democratic space into a one-party state, where elections become a mere formality and governance turns into absolute control. Speak out, organize, and demand accountability. Your collective power is the ultimate check against tyranny.
And to our esteemed public servants, those dedicated men and women who serve in various capacities across our nation: you are the backbone of our institutions. You took an oath to uphold the constitution and serve the Nigerian people, not any individual or political party. I implore you to see the profound danger of the tyrannical behaviors emanating from some of our current leaders. Understand that participating in or enabling attempts to ruin the future of Nigeria will have lasting consequences, not just for the nation, but for your own conscience and legacy. Stand firm against bad directives, resist attempts to weaponize state institutions, and always prioritize the long-term health of our democracy over short-term political expediency. Your integrity in these challenging times is paramount.
Let us rise together, under the banner of the ADC and the spirit of a united Nigeria, to protect our democracy, restore our economy, and ensure a future where every Nigerian can thrive in freedom and dignity. The time for a new political fortune is now!
Ibrahim Garba Wala
National Lead Advocate,
The Handshake Movement.
