A former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Timi Frank, has expressed concern over what he described as growing threats to Nigeria’s democratic system.

Frank accused the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of actions capable of weakening opposition parties, while also calling for international attention, including possible intervention from the United States.

He made the remarks on Thursday in a statement reacting to INEC’s decision not to recognise the leadership of David Mark within the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

INEC had stated that it would await the outcome of a pending suit before a Federal High Court in Abuja before taking a definitive position on the matter.

Frank argued that the development reflects a broader pattern that could undermine political competition ahead of the 2027 general elections. According to him, the situation is not isolated but indicative of a wider trend affecting multiple opposition parties.

“INEC and the APC-led government appear to be taking steps that threaten the very foundation of our democracy,” he said.

He further noted that several opposition parties, including the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Labour Party, Social Democratic Party (SDP), and New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), are currently grappling with internal crises, with the ADC being the latest affected.

Frank alleged that these developments suggest a coordinated effort to weaken opposition structures ahead of future elections.

He also raised concerns about the judiciary, claiming that court rulings are increasingly being used to frustrate political parties and disrupt democratic processes.

“The courts and the judiciary have been used to thwart democratic processes with frivolous decisions,” he stated.

Drawing historical parallels, Frank warned that the current situation bears similarities to the era of Sani Abacha, during which democratic institutions were suppressed.

“This pattern is reminiscent of the tactics employed during the era of General Sani Abacha,” he said.

The APC chieftain also expressed concern over the leadership of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, alleging that recent actions suggest authoritarian tendencies and a determination to retain power at all costs.

“Recent actions raise serious questions about the future of democratic governance in Nigeria,” he added.

Frank warned that Nigeria risks descending into political instability if urgent measures are not taken, noting that similar trends in other countries have led to unrest and conflict.

He called on key institutions, including the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA), Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC), Nigeria Medical Association (NMA), the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), and traditional rulers, to rise in defence of democracy.

“I call on all well-meaning Nigerians to speak up and defend our democracy. Silence at this critical moment is not an option,” he said.

Frank also appealed to the international community to monitor developments closely. He specifically urged Donald Trump to support the preservation of democratic values in Nigeria.