The Niger Delta Youth Congress (NDYC) has sounded a critical alarm about the fragile state of Nigeria's democracy, calling for immediate protective measures against emerging threats to the nation's democratic institutions.
Growing Concerns Over Democratic Institutions
During a press briefing held on Tuesday, NDYC National Coordinator Comrade Israel Uwejeyan expressed serious concerns about recent political developments that could potentially undermine public confidence in Nigeria's democratic processes. The youth organization highlighted specific worries about the conduct of Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike and questioned the neutrality of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The NDYC specifically called on President Bola Tinubu to caution Minister Wike regarding his political activities, particularly those related to internal party affairs that have raised what the group described as national concern. The organization emphasized that its position stems from a commitment to democratic norms rather than personal or regional grievances.
INEC's Role Under Scrutiny
The youth congress also turned its attention to INEC's handling of the recent Peoples Democratic Party National Convention outcomes in Ibadan. The group expressed apprehension about the electoral commission's posture toward recognizing newly elected National Chairman Kabiru Turaki, warning that any perceived inconsistency could severely damage public trust in the electoral system.
INEC Chairman Prof. Joash Amupitan must resist any pressure or influence that might compromise the commission's credibility, the NDYC insisted. The organization stressed that Nigeria's democracy remains too fragile to withstand institutional hesitation or partisan alignment from critical bodies like INEC.
Call to Action for Democratic Protection
Comrade Uwejeyan delivered a powerful message during the briefing, stating that the stability of Nigeria's democracy requires fairness from both public officials and institutions. He emphasized that internal party democracy remains essential to the nation's political health and warned that the NDYC will not remain silent while democratic foundations are being eroded.
Nigeria is bigger than any individual, and democracy must be protected at all costs, Uwejeyan declared. The NDYC reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to defending democracy, constitutionalism, and responsible leadership, urging all citizens and institutions to prioritize constitutional order over political rivalry.
The organization concluded by insisting that INEC must act strictly within legal boundaries, uphold choices from validly constituted conventions, and avoid being perceived as a tool for political actors seeking to distort democratic outcomes.
