Paul Ibe, the media aide to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, has accused President Bola Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress (APC) of using state institutions to intimidate and coerce opposition politicians into joining the ruling party.
In an interview, Ibe asserted that the recent detention of former Sokoto State Governor, Senator Aminu Tambuwal, by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is not an isolated incident but part of a calculated plot to weaken the opposition ahead of the 2027 general elections. According to him, the administration’s ultimate goal is to manipulate the electoral process and create a one-party system.
“It’s very clear the institutions of state are being used to coerce politicians and leaders into the APC,” Ibe stated. “It didn’t start with Tambuwal, and it won’t end with him. It’s all because Tinubu and the APC are focused on manipulating the electoral process.”
He maintained that Atiku and other leaders of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition would not succumb to what he called President Tinubu’s “antics and machinations.” Ibe described the current political climate as a “civilian dictatorship,” arguing that it is worse than military rule because it undermines the rule of law, freedom of association, and freedom of speech.
“These are very dire times for Nigeria,” Ibe continued. “I speak about the battle to save our democracy… and without a democratic culture, the ability to deliver good governance is heavily compromised.” He stressed the importance of Nigerians reclaiming the country to rebuild it and ensure it serves their interests.
These allegations have been echoed by other opposition figures and groups, including the African Democratic Congress (ADC) itself, which has also accused the EFCC of engaging in a “choreographed media trial.” In response, the EFCC and a presidential aide have denied the accusations, with the EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, stating that the agency’s investigations are non-partisan and without “sacred cows.”
