A coalition of youth groups from Northern Nigeria has issued a strong warning against what it terms the alleged harassment and intimidation of opposition figures, specifically members of the African Democratic Congress (ADC). The group cautions that such actions, if perceived as selective, could severely damage public confidence in the nation's democratic institutions as the country gears up for the 2027 general elections.
Press Conference Highlights Democratic Concerns
Led by Comrade Ibrahim Mohamed, the coalition voiced its apprehensions during a press conference held on Sunday, 22 December 2025, in Abuja. Mohamed argued that law enforcement actions seen as politically or regionally motivated risk deepening existing mistrust, especially during a sensitive pre-election period.
While expressing full support for the anti-corruption fight, the coalition stressed that accountability efforts must be transparent and impartial. "Our concern is not about shielding anyone from accountability," Mohamed stated. "It is about ensuring that justice is applied evenly and strictly in line with the rule of law." He emphasized that selective enforcement, whether real or perceived, weakens the foundation of public trust in state institutions.
Specific Cases Fueling Anxiety
The group pointed to recent developments involving certain individuals, including a former Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, and other ADC-affiliated figures. These events, according to the coalition, have generated significant anxiety within Northern communities, particularly among ADC members and supporters, fueling fears of political intimidation.
The coalition made a direct appeal to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), urging the agency to maintain the highest levels of transparency and consistency in all its operations. They noted that the credibility of Nigeria's anti-corruption campaign hinges on its perceived fairness across all political and regional divides.
Calls for Restraint and National Cohesion
Beyond the call to anti-graft agencies, the coalition urged all security and law-enforcement bodies to respect the fundamental rights and dignity of individuals and their families during investigations. They warned that escalating political tension and regional mistrust, if not carefully managed, pose a direct threat to national unity and democratic stability.
The group called on political leaders and institutions to act with restraint and promote inclusiveness. Mohamed further appealed for constructive dialogue among political actors, noting that Nigeria's diversity requires sensitive handling of contentious issues to avoid widening the nation's fault lines.
"Nigeria’s democracy will only grow stronger when institutions are seen to operate independently, professionally, and without bias," Mohamed concluded, calling on the federal government to reassure citizens of its commitment to impartial governance.
