Abuja:The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has raised concerns over the inclusion of opposition party members in the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential campaign council, warning it could threaten Nigeria’s multiparty democracy.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, CISLAC’s Executive Director, Auwal Rafsanjani, expressed that incorporating key figures such as Nyesom Wike of the PDP, Gov. Charles Soludo of APGA, and Gov. Ademola Adeleke of Accord into the APC campaign undermines the credibility and independence of the country’s political system.
Rafsanjani emphasized that while political collaboration and freedom of association are fundamental democratic rights, this situation calls into question the ability of opposition parties to present real alternatives to the electorate. He warned that such dynamics could weaken Nigeria’s opposition political structures, making them less effective in providing necessary checks and balances.
He further noted the potential blurring of lines between government responsibilities and political activities, cautioning against the misuse of public office for campaign purposes. Rafsanjani highlighted Section 99(2) of the Electoral Act 2026, which prohibits the use of state resources to favor any political party, and demanded strict measures to prevent such abuses.
The CISLAC director called on the political parties involved to clarify their stances and urged leaders to honor their responsibilities to voters and party members. He stressed the importance of maintaining a democratic environment where citizens have genuine political choices and warned against the drift toward a one-party system.