The Southern and Middle Belt Leaders Forum (SMBLF) has warned the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) against any actions aimed at weakening opposition parties through intimidation, inducement, infiltration, or other underhand tactics, stressing that democracy thrives on political pluralism.
The forum expressed concern over deepening internal crises within opposition ranks, warning that such disunity threatens Nigeria’s democratic stability.
Their call drew support from the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Labour Party (LP), and Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP). At the time of the warning, neither INEC nor the APC had responded.
In a joint statement signed by leaders of Afenifere, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, PANDEF, and the Middle Belt Forum, the SMBLF stressed that a credible and vibrant opposition is essential for accountability, policy alternatives, and the protection of citizens’ rights.
The forum cautioned the APC against fostering a political culture that suppresses dissent and urged INEC to maintain strict neutrality, strengthen mechanisms for resolving intra-party disputes, and ensure real-time transmission of election results.
Reactions from political actors
ACF described the call as timely, noting that internal opposition disputes distract from the need to hold the ruling party accountable.
LP accused the APC-led government of deliberately engineering its leadership crisis, despite a Supreme Court ruling resolving the matter.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar urged opposition unity ahead of the 2027 elections, warning that without cohesion, defeating the APC would be difficult.
PDP noted that opposition parties have made progress in recent months, with leaders focusing on unity and strategy.
CUPP also blamed government interference and INEC’s inaction for the LP crisis, warning that such conduct undermines democratic principles.
The SMBLF reaffirmed its commitment to working with all political stakeholders to strengthen democratic culture, promote justice, and ensure that the will of the Nigerian people remains the ultimate authority in governance.
