.Says APC has betrayed the spirit of democracy.
.Reinstate Fubara as Rivers Gov, Bode George tells President
.US, UK, others demand review of Cybercrimes Act to protect dissent voices
.’Law hindering businesses, investors to assess legal risks’
CHIGOZIE AMADI
The Conference of Nigeria Political Parties (CNPP) has accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of leading the systematic erosion of the guiding principles of democracy and the values represented by June 12.
According to the group, the ÀPC has now turned itself into a voluntary architect for the destruction of the ideological and other structures of democracy even though it was a party built by the political elements and movements that once championed the immortalization of the assumed winner of 1993 Presidential election, late Chief MKO Abiola and the restoration of true democracy in the country.
In a statement issued on Wednesday and signed by Comrade James Ezema, Deputy National Publicity Secretary, the Conference of Nigeria Political Parties (CNPP) said it joins the millions of Nigerians at home and in the diaspora, who are commemorating the significance of June 12,, a date etched in our national history as the symbol of the people’s will, democratic sacrifice, however expressing regrets that the resistance against tyranny has been eroded by recent developments within the political space.
In its words: “June 12, 1993, stands as the day Nigerians set aside ethnic, religious, and regional differences to vote in what has remained the freest, fairest, and most credible election in the country’s history, won by Late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola. The election symbolized transparency, electoral integrity, and national unity, but tragically, it was annulled by a military junta desperate to hold onto power.
“It is, however, both ironic and regrettable that the same All Progressives Congress (APC) — a party built by the same political elements and movements that once championed the immortalization of MKO Abiola and the restoration of June 12 as Democracy Day — has become the architect of the systematic erosion of the very values June 12 represents.
“While we recognize and appreciate the efforts of past and present administrations in acknowledging June 12 — particularly the historic declaration by President Muhammadu Buhari recognizing it as Democracy Day — we must not be blinded by symbolism without substance.
“Today, elections conducted under APC-led governments have consistently fallen short of transparency, credibility, and democratic standards. From allegations of voter suppression, militarization of polls, manipulation of election results, abuse of incumbency, to compromised electoral umpires, the electoral processes under the APC have starkly contrasted the ideals that June 12 embodies.
“Worse still, the APC-led government has failed to pursue genuine electoral reforms or support the evolution of a people-driven constitution that can institutionalize transparent processes and accountability in governance. The sacred principles of popular will, fair competition, and justice, which formed the cornerstone of the June 12 struggle, have been desecrated in the pursuit of power and political control.
“The defunct Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) — one of the legacy parties that merged to form the APC — was at the forefront of championing MKO Abiola’s cause and the June 12 ideology. Yet, those very promoters now appear to have used June 12 as a political ladder to attain power, only to discard its ethos once they achieved their ambitions. This betrayal of purpose must be addressed.”
In its call for action, the CNPP challenged the APC-led Federal Government to immediately institute a national process for the enactment of a People’s Constitution — “one that reflects the aspirations of Nigerians for credible electoral reforms, independent institutions, justice, and equity,” stating that only through such an organic and inclusive process can we lay a solid foundation for sustainable democracy.
“We also call on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, a key figure in the June 12 pro-democracy struggle, to rise to the occasion and lead with courage and conscience. As someone who bore the brunt of military authoritarianism alongside MKO Abiola and other patriots, history now beckons on him to prove that his commitment to democracy was not just about ending military rule, but about building and protecting the democratic order.
“The President must ensure that the 2027 general elections are free, fair, transparent, and credible — elections that reflect the will of the people, untainted by rigging, vote buying, voter intimidation, or state interference. In doing so, he will not only write his name in gold but join the ranks of global statesmen like Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, whose decision to concede defeat in 2015 set a rare and commendable example of democratic maturity.”
Meanwhile, Former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Olabode George, has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to, in the spirit of the June 12 anniversary, return suspended Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara to office.
Fubara was suspended by Tinubu on March 18 due to political tension in the oil-bearing state.
Last week, Fubara visited Tinubu in Lagos during Sallah celebration.
George, in an open letter to commemorate the 32nd anniversary of the June 12, 1993 presidential election won by the late Chief M.K.O. Abiola but annulled on June 23, 1993 by General Ibrahim Babangida, said: “If Tinubu could forgive Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, then he should extend same gesture to Fubara.”
“On June 12, we will be celebrating Democracy Day. This is a reminder of the true meaning of democracy – the will of the people.
“Since Tinubu has forgiven Sanwo-Olu, then it makes a lot of sense, spiritually, to also forgive Fubara and let him return to office. I am talking as an elder.
“Let me also remind the President that he was in the forefront of those who fought the military, seeking a return to civilian rule.
“I still remember him coming to my office in Aso Rock when he wanted to see General Diya. That was during the General Sani Abacha regime. He wanted to be deputy to Olagunsoye Oyinlola in Lagos then.
“He discussed with Diya but General Abacha eventually gave the position to Mrs. Okunnu. I know how passionate Tinubu was then about return to civil rule. He later joined NADECO to fight for democracy. Some of those who fought alongside him for democracy have died. It is not of his making that he is alive today.
“So, he should thank God, honour the memory of those who fought alongside him for democracy and return Fubara to office immediately.
“I also appeal to him, in the spirit of my maternal grand uncle who founded the first political party in Nigeria in 1922, Herbert Macaulay, to please reinstate Fubara. Tinubu should listen to, and honour this appeal in memory of all those who died in the journey to our democracy.”
However, As Nigeria commemorate 26 years of Democracy, the United States of America, United Kingdom and others foreign missions has congratulated Nigerians, noting that the country should consider reform of the Cybercrimes Act to prevent misuse.
While noting that the Act is being misused by some to silence criticism and dissent, they maintained that democracy is meant to foster a society where people can debate and discuss ideas free from government control.
This was contained in a statement which was jointly signed by Heads of Missions, Richard M. Mills, Jr., U.S. Embassy, Richard Montgomery, British High Commission, Sanna Selin, Embassy of Finland, Svein Baera, Embassy of Norway and Pasquale Salvaggio, Canadian High Commission in the country.
They said, “On Democracy Day, the heads of missions of the United States, United Kingdom, Finland, Norway, and Canada would like to recognise and congratulate the Nigerian people’s commitment to 26 years of democratic governance. Healthy democracies are formed of many important ingredients and when marking 25 years of democracy in Nigeria in 2024, President Tinubu underlined that in Nigeria “there must be diverse perspectives and viewpoints.”
“Free expression has long been a core value of Nigeria’s democracy. Nigeria’s constitution enshrines the right to freedom of expression, aiming to protect its citizens’ rights and foster a society where people can debate and discuss ideas free from government control. This right, a principle of trusting ordinary citizens to have discussion in the virtual public square, remains vital today.
“In April, Nigeria’s National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) raised concerns about the 2015 Cybercrimes Act, the amendments made to it in 2024, and the law’s impact on free expression. The Act has laudable aims: to combat online fraud and cyberattacks. There is growing evidence, however, that the Act is being misused by some to silence criticism and dissent.”
The missions added, “The NHRC’s advisory opinion on freedom of expression warned that it has potentials for abuse, particularly with respect to arrests and prosecutions of activists, journalists, bloggers, and ordinary social media users.
“In addition, in 2022 the ECOWAS Court of Justice ruled that the Act is not in conformity with the country’s obligations related to freedom of expression under the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.
“Misuse of the Cybercrimes Act undermines democratic advancement and civic participation. It also jeopardizes the confidence of investors and risks deterring the innovation needed for economic growth.”
Citing example of Dele Farotimi who was charged with 12 counts of cybercrime after his alleged corruption in the judiciary in a book and on a podcast.
Farotimi was allegedly detained in Lagos, transported across state lines to Ekiti, and brought to court in handcuffs.
The statement noted, “Though the charges were eventually withdrawn, his ordeal highlights a troubling issue – the Cybercrimes Act, originally intended to combat online fraud and cyberterrorism, can be misused as a tool to stifle free expression and undermine democratic engagement.”
They further added, “Farotimi is not alone. Journalists, activists, and ordinary citizens have faced similar charges for sharing opinions or reporting on alleged corruption. This distortion of the law’s original intent can lead to citizens becoming hesitant to speak out, weakening democratic accountability and potentially fuelling distrust in government.”
The missions pointed out that Nigeria Communications Commission (NCC) estimates the country loses $500 million per year to cybercrime, saying “This problem requires a response. However, the Cybercrimes Act’s broad language, especially its vague definitions of “false information,” “cyberstalking,” “harassment,” and “insult” leave room for confusion and potential abuse.
“The law’s broad scope allows it to be misused against Nigerian citizens seeking to express dissent, form opinions, or criticize powerful people.
NHRC has called on law enforcement to “exercise caution” in how they interpret the Act’s frequently used Section 24 to make sure that charges reflect an actual threat to public order.
“We therefore welcome the commitment from Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, to collaborate with the National Assembly and relevant stakeholders in reviewing the Cybercrimes Act so that it protects the values enshrined in Nigeria’s constitution.
“The implications extend beyond free expression. Nigeria’s economic future depends on its ability to innovate and attract investment in the digital age.
“However, the Cybercrimes Act’s misapplication, even in a small number of cases, risks detracting the innovators and entrepreneurs the government wants to invest in Nigeria.
“The Cybercrimes Act also contributes to uncertainty abroad about Nigeria’s legal landscape. Its vague provisions make it difficult for businesses and investors to assess legal risks, hindering investment in industries that rely on digital content. Reform is needed to protect both citizens’ rights and Nigeria’s future.”
Specifically, the Heads of Mission in Nigeria encouraged Nigerian lawmakers to consider reform of the Cybercrimes Act to narrow the definitions of key terms such as “false information,” cyberstalking,” insult,” hatred,” and “harassment,” and ensure those definitions cannot be used erroneously to silence critics and censor expression.
“As friends of Nigeria who share the country’s strong commitment to democratic values, we want Nigeria to realise its potential as a democratic digital powerhouse. We would therefore welcome the Nigerian government amending the Act to strike a balance between protecting citizens while preserving human rights, including free expression. This will be a difficult balance to strike but is vital for delivering what Nigeria wants: a stable and open democracy, and economic growth underpinned by investment.
“Nigeria is not alone in facing this problem. Democracies across the world are grappling with the ever-evolving challenges and opportunities that the digital world presents. Through the Council of Europe’s Global Action on Cybercrime project, Nigerian lawmakers are receiving funding and technical assistance to help the current review of the Act lead to legislation that meets international standards and best practices.
“However, the deadline for the Act’s review has consistently been delayed, and we urge Nigerian lawmakers to make this review a priority, and ensure it is open to public consultation and debate.
“Free expression is a precious commodity that relies on all of us to respect it. It is a fundamental tenant of Nigeria’s constitution. Nigerians, and any citizens of countries around the world, should be able to hold and express their views, even if those opinions are unpopular.”
