By Jeleel Olawale

As Nigeria gears up for the 2027 general elections, the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC), has warned that any attempt to stifle opposition could undermine democracy and trigger political unrest.

The warning was issued on Monday, December 29, 2025, by MURIC’s Founder and Executive Director, Professor Ishaq Akintola, who appealed to governments at both federal and state levels to uphold democratic principles and ensure a peaceful electoral process.

According to Akintola, suppressing opposition voices poses a serious risk to Nigeria’s democratic growth.

“As we prepare for the 2027 general elections, we find it necessary to appeal to governments at both federal and state levels to desist from stifling opposition in order to avoid political violence, sustain our nascent democracy and ensure a free, fair, peaceful and credible general election in 2027,” he said.

Drawing an analogy, Akintola likened democracy to a young sapling that requires careful nurturing to grow into a strong tree.

“Democracy, like a sapling, must be jealously watered to mature into established and enduring democratic practices capable of fostering civilizational growth and technological advancement,” he stated.

He emphasized that nurturing democracy requires tolerance of opposing views, respect for the rule of law, freedom of expression and strict adherence to the separation of powers.

“At no point must the executive usurp the roles of the judiciary or the legislature. Creating a conducive atmosphere for free, fair and credible elections is sine qua non,” he added.

MURIC also raised concerns over what it described as an emerging crackdown on opposition figures.

The group noted complaints suggesting that the body language of President Bola Tinubu’s administration signals a systematic effort to weaken opposition through the use of government agencies. Allegations include the weaponization of anti-graft bodies, involuntary defections, suppression of dissent and moves toward a one-party state.

While stressing its political neutrality, MURIC said it could not remain silent in the face of what it described as potential violations of fundamental human rights.

“It is always safe to assume that the opposition is vulnerable while members of the ruling party enjoy advantages,” the statement said.

The group questioned why opposition figures are frequently invited by security agencies while individuals with pending corruption cases reportedly move freely and associate with top government officials.

MURIC called on security agencies to exercise professionalism and restraint, warning against actions motivated by political interests.

“People should not be invited just to please the powers that be. Equal opportunities must be given to all political parties, especially the opposition, to access public spaces and facilities,” Akintola said.

The organization further expressed concern over what it described as growing threats to freedom of expression, citing recent allegations by civil society groups over harassment of journalists and activists.

Quoting German theologian Martin Niemöller’s famous warning on silence in the face of oppression, MURIC cautioned Nigerians against indifference to the erosion of civil liberties.

The group also lamented the absence of clear political ideology in Nigeria, blaming the situation for political instability and bureaucratic inefficiency.

“The prevailing ‘bolekaja’ mentality among politicians and the attendant ‘bojuboju’ bureaucracy among civil servants will take us nowhere,” the statement noted.

MURIC advocated the adoption of liberal democracy as a way out of Nigeria’s political challenges.

“Liberal democracy recognizes and protects individual rights and freedoms while limiting political power through the rule of law. Sadly, we are not there yet,” Akintola added.