Utomi and Ezekwesili Warn INEC, APC on Democracy Threat

On Thursday, political economist Pat Utomi expressed concerns regarding the actions of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the All Progressives Congress (APC), warning that these could undermine democratic competition in Nigeria ahead of the 2027 general elections. Speaking at a press conference in Victoria Island, Utomi accused INEC of collaborating with the APC to sideline opposition parties, which he described as a step towards authoritarianism.

He compared President Bola Tinubu to historical authoritarian figures, suggesting that the current trajectory could lead to a one-man rule. The statement highlighted the recent decision by INEC to withdraw recognition from the leadership of the African Democratic Congress, led by David Mark, which critics argue is a malicious attempt to weaken opposition parties.

Utomi, along with other civil society figures, called for comprehensive electoral reforms to ensure free and fair elections, and demanded the resignation of the INEC chairman. The group plans to mobilize nationwide against perceived electoral conspiracies.