INEC Under Amupitan Becoming Existential Threat to Nigeria's Multi-Party Democracy, Dasuki Alleges
Rep Abdussamad Dasuki, member representing Tambuwal/Kebbe Federal Constituency in Sokoto State, has issued a stark warning that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), under the leadership of Prof Joash Amupitan, is evolving into an existential threat to Nigeria's multi-party democracy. He accused the commission of colluding with elements plotting to stifle opposition parties and transform Nigeria into a one-party state.
Mass Defection to ADC Amidst Political Turmoil
Dasuki made these remarks on Wednesday while picking up his membership card for the African Democratic Congress (ADC) at his Dogon Daji/Salah Ward in Tambuwal Local Government Area of Sokoto. The event was marked by a massive turnout of supporters, including hundreds of members from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and other parties who formally defected to the ADC. Addressing the enthusiastic crowd, Dasuki highlighted recent developments in Nigeria's political landscape as evidence of a coordinated effort to weaken opposition voices and undermine democratic principles.
INEC's Refusal to Recognize ADC Leadership as Critical Step
He specifically pointed to INEC's decision not to recognize the David Mark-led leadership of the ADC as a critical step in what he believes is a broader scheme to stifle opposition and dismantle democratic plurality. According to Dasuki, this move is designed to weaken opposition structures, destroy the multi-party system, and ultimately create a one-party state, with the All Progressives Congress (APC) positioned not only as the dominant party but as the sole platform capable of fielding any credible candidate in the 2027 presidential election.
"This is not just about one political party or one leadership dispute," Dasuki said. "It is about the soul of our democracy. What we are witnessing is a calculated attempt to silence opposition, shrink the democratic space and impose a one-party system on a diverse and vibrant nation." He warned that such actions, if left unchecked, could reverse the democratic gains Nigeria has made over the years.
Call for Vigilance and Defense of Democratic Institutions
Dasuki emphasized that the refusal to recognize legitimate leadership within opposition parties is not accidental but part of a broader, well-orchestrated plan to weaken alternative voices and ensure only one party remains viable ahead of 2027. He called on citizens, civil society organizations, and the international community to remain vigilant, urging all stakeholders to defend democratic institutions and uphold the rule of law.
"We must rise collectively to resist any attempt to derail our democracy. Nigeria belongs to all of us, not to a select few seeking to monopolize power. The future of our nation depends on our ability to protect and preserve a truly competitive and inclusive political system," he added.
Dasuki's Move to ADC Driven by Patriotic Commitment
Explaining his decision to join the ADC, Dasuki stated it was driven by his desire to collaborate with like-minded patriots committed to rescuing the country from its current socio-economic and political challenges. He called on the people of Tambuwal/Kebbe Federal Constituency, as well as the wider population of Sokoto State and Nigeria, to remain steadfast as a new political journey begins, aimed at contributing meaningfully to efforts to salvage the nation from the precipice and build a more prosperous and democratic society.
Youth-Focused Agenda and Inclusion Emphasized
Dasuki emphasized his commitment to advancing a youth-focused agenda that will ensure greater inclusion of young people in party affairs and in local, state, and national governance. He described the ADC as a party that prioritizes youth participation and offers a platform for young people to play active roles in shaping the future of the nation.
Formal Reception of Defectors and Youth Group Participation
At the gathering, Rep Dasuki, alongside party leaders, formally received the new defectors into the ADC. The event also drew the participation of numerous youth groups from across the constituency and the state. In their remarks, the youth groups expressed their decision to embrace the ADC, citing the alarming state of insecurity and the worsening economic conditions, which have deepened the hardship faced by the people of the state.
Background on Dasuki's Resignation from PDP
It would be recalled that Rep Dasuki formally resigned from the PDP on March 15, 2026, through a letter addressed to the Chairman of his Dogon Daji/Salah Ward. In the letter, he cited the protracted leadership crisis within the party, which he said had significantly weakened its capacity to function effectively as a leading opposition platform. He further noted that the crisis had hindered the party from providing the credible and organized opposition necessary for strengthening democracy.
