Prominent political scholar and former presidential adviser, Prof. Usman Bugaje, has raised concerns over the state of Nigeria’s democracy, warning that the country’s political climate could jeopardise the conduct of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking in a video interview excerpt that has gone viral on social media, Prof. Bugaje alleged that the ruling party and the Federal Government were using state institutions to weaken opposition parties, creating an uneven political environment.
According to him, the level of interference in opposition activities has fuelled fears that the next general election “may not even hold”.
He accused the government of deploying the Judiciary and security agencies against opposition parties, alleging that political party offices were being invaded while “charlatans and mercenaries” were being used to destabilise rival political groups. “If you shut everybody out, then where’s the election? Who are you competing with?” he asked, adding that anyone seeking absolute power outside democratic competition should “join the army and do a military coup” rather than undermine constitutional processes.
Prof. Bugaje also expressed concern over what he described as growing public frustration, arguing that the government had failed to address key national challenges. He said Nigerians, particularly young people, were increasingly angry over worsening economic conditions, insecurity, rising taxes and the depreciation of the Naira.
The political scientist also cited recent kidnappings of schoolchildren in Oyo and Borno states as evidence that insecurity remained unresolved, lamenting what he described as the Government’s focus on political activities instead of addressing pressing security concerns.
He further urged political leaders to shift attention from political manoeuvring to long-term national development, stressing that Nigeria’s rapidly growing population requires urgent planning in food security, housing, healthcare, education, infrastructure and job creation. According to him, politicians should prioritise policies that improve citizens’ welfare rather than engaging in actions aimed solely at retaining political power.
The remarks have generated widespread reactions online, with many Nigerians sharing the interview under the hashtag: #OppositionInTrouble.
Prof. Bugaje, a political scientist, former Executive Secretary of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), and respected public affairs commentator, called on the nation’s leaders to safeguard democratic institutions and focus on governance rather than political confrontation.
The Tinubu administration and the ruling party had not publicly responded to the allegations at the time of filing this report.
