The National Publicity Secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Bolaji Abdullahi, has publicly called on the Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, to engage in a televised debate over the credibility of Nigeria’s electoral framework ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking during an appearance on The Morning Brief on Channels Television, Abdullahi questioned whether the recently passed Electoral Act would meaningfully strengthen transparency and public trust in future elections. He argued that rather than issuing written statements defending the government’s position, presidential aides should be willing to openly defend their claims before the Nigerian public.
Abdullahi maintained that a face-to-face discussion would allow citizens to better assess the merits of the reforms. According to him, a live debate would provide an opportunity for the administration to clearly demonstrate how the amendments to the electoral law would address concerns surrounding accountability, fairness, and credibility in the electoral process.
The ADC spokesman also accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of showing intolerance toward opposition voices. He suggested that the government appears uncomfortable with scrutiny and resistant to critical questioning from rival political parties. Abdullahi insisted that opposition parties have a constitutional responsibility to hold the government accountable and that attempts to dismiss or belittle them would not deter their efforts.
In addition, he criticized the tone of recent statements issued by the APC’s National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka. Abdullahi described the language used in some press releases as unnecessarily harsh and degrading, arguing that political discourse should reflect a higher standard of civility. He expressed concern about the example such rhetoric sets for younger Nigerians observing the political landscape.
As the 2027 elections approach, Abdullahi’s remarks signal an intensifying debate over electoral reforms and the broader state of democratic engagement in the country. His challenge underscores growing calls from opposition figures for greater transparency, open dialogue, and accountability in Nigeria’s evolving political environment.
0 Comments