Igbo Leaders of Thought warn against weakening opposition, urge judiciary to safeguard democracy

By Anayo Okoli

ENUGU — The Igbo Leaders of Thought (ILT), a socio-political group comprising intellectuals, traditional rulers and other stakeholders from the South-East, has expressed concern over what it described as the weakening of opposition parties ahead of the 2027 general elections, warning that a vibrant opposition is essential for democratic governance.

In a statement signed by its President, Prof. Elochukwu Amucheazi, and Secretary, Prof. Jerry Chukwuokolo, the group cautioned that actions perceived as limiting opposition activities could undermine the credibility of the 2027 elections and the country’s democratic process.

The group referenced recent concerns raised by the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Mr. Peter Obi, regarding his security and business interests, as well as court rulings affecting some opposition parties.

ILT also referred to previous remarks attributed to Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo concerning Peter Obi’s security during a visit to the state, and alleged that gunshots were fired during one of Obi’s political engagements in Edo earlier this year.

According to the group, weakening opposition parties could have adverse consequences for Nigeria’s democratic development and political stability.

“The democracy Nigerians enjoy today is the product of years of struggle against military rule,” the statement said, adding that the country requires a strong opposition to deepen democratic governance.

The group also expressed concern over what it described as the use of state institutions, including the judiciary, security agencies and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), in ways that could hinder opposition parties from effectively participating in the electoral process.

It warned against a situation where Nigeria could drift towards a de facto one-party state, arguing that democracy thrives on political pluralism, competition and the protection of dissenting voices.

Citing historical examples, ILT recalled the political crises of the First and Second Republics, as well as the violence that followed the 2011 presidential election, urging political leaders to learn from history and avoid actions capable of triggering instability.

The group also criticised recent judicial decisions affecting opposition parties, particularly a Federal High Court judgment in Lokoja involving the NDC, arguing that the judiciary should uphold constitutional principles and strengthen democratic institutions.

ILT welcomed the NDC’s decision to challenge the ruling at the Court of Appeal and encouraged other political parties dissatisfied with court judgments to seek legal redress through established judicial processes.

The group further called on Nigerians to defend democratic values and urged the judiciary to continue playing an impartial role in strengthening democracy and the rule of law.

It also appealed to the international community, including the United States and the European Union, to closely observe the processes leading to the 2027 general elections to promote transparency and public confidence in the electoral process.