Nigeria Needs Strong Opposition Party — Maduabuchi

A Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Oba Maduabuchi, has cautioned that the absence of a strong and vibrant opposition is detrimental to Nigeria’s democracy, urging the judiciary to urgently resolve lingering political disputes, particularly within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Speaking on the country’s political landscape on Arise TV, Maduabuchi stressed that a functional opposition is essential for sustaining democratic balance and ensuring accountability in governance. He warned that without a credible opposition, the ruling party could operate without adequate checks.

“It is not in the best interest of Nigerians that we do not have a good and vibrant opposition,” he said, adding that the current uncertainty within opposition parties poses a serious threat to the nation’s democratic process.

He identified the crisis within the PDP as a major concern, describing the party as a formidable opposition platform with deep roots across the country. According to him, unresolved internal disputes and leadership tussles have left the party in disarray at a crucial period when preparations for upcoming elections should be in full swing.

Maduabuchi called on the Supreme Court of Nigeria to fast-track hearings on pending cases involving the PDP, noting that delays could negatively affect the electoral process. With party primaries expected to commence as early as April, he warned that leadership uncertainty could weaken the party’s readiness.

He further urged the apex court to address critical issues surrounding the legitimacy of rival leadership factions within the PDP, particularly questions over who emerged from the recognised National Working Committee (NWC) led by Damagun. He maintained that a clear judicial pronouncement would restore order and enable the party to move forward.

He said, “Whatever anybody says, PDP is in the DNA of many Nigerians. I believe that the actual opposition party in Nigeria is the PDP. I strongly believe, and very tenuously too, that without opposition, the ruling party will ride roughshod over everybody.

“APC is taking a stroll in the park with a cup of coffee in one hand and deciding who holds what position and whatnot. So, I imagine that the Supreme Court should save Nigerian polity. It should save Nigerian polity. Decide this issue.

“This is a proper situation where the Court of Appeal would say, ‘forget your briefs, address us on these two points.’ Between Turaki and Abdulrahman, who is the proper, who emerged from the recognized NWC of Damagun? Once we know that, that settles the issue.

“Between the NWC of Turaki and that of Mohammed Abdulrahman, which of them emerged from the accepted National Working Committee of Damagun? Once the Supreme Court decides that, every other thing becomes academic. And I’m only urging the Supreme Court to do that in the interest of Nigeria. That’s the only way Nigeria can move forward.”

End.