Amobi Nzelu, a senior lawyer called to the Nigerian Bar in 1980 and Principal Partner at Chinenye Chambers, has criticised opposition leaders campaigning for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election in 2027, describing the move as unfair to democratic principles. In this interview with News Maker Media, Nzelu warns that the opposition’s decision to abandon its political parties in support of Tinubu could weaken democratic competition. Excerpts:
Amobi Nzelu, a senior lawyer called to the Bar in 1980 is the principal partner at Chinenye Chambers. In this interview with the News Maker recently, he frowns at the decision of the opposition leaders to abandon their political parties for, 2027 Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s President campaign, a decision he says is dangerous in s democracy. Excerpts.
Some politicians associated with opposition parties have reportedly accepted appointments to coordinate President Tinubu’s 2027 presidential campaign. What is your reaction?
I believe the development raises important questions about the state of our democracy. However, we must understand the circumstances surrounding these political decisions before reaching definitive conclusions. The public deserves to know the political objectives behind such alliances and what they mean for the future of opposition politics.
Do you consider the development a threat to multiparty democracy?
My concern is that the country could gradually move towards a situation in which the ruling party becomes overwhelmingly dominant and opposition parties struggle to provide meaningful alternatives. But we must distinguish between political cooperation and the actual disappearance of opposition. The real test is whether competing parties can still organise independently, criticise government policies and present credible candidates to Nigerians.Some supporters of the appointments argue that political agreements must be respected. What is your position?
Agreements are an important part of political relationships, but the public may not know all the circumstances surrounding them. We should not assume that every political decision has the same motivation. What matters is whether the arrangements are consistent with the law, democratic principles and the public interest.Is accepting a presidential campaign appointment by someone associated with an opposition party inherently undemocratic?
Not necessarily. Every citizen has the freedom to make political choices within the law. However, when a prominent politician changes direction or cooperates with a rival political platform, supporters are entitled to ask questions. Political leaders should explain their decisions and allow the public to judge their consistency and credibility.You described President Tinubu as an experienced political strategist. What informs that assessment?
He has demonstrated an ability to build political relationships across different groups and regions. Political networking is an important part of electoral competition. My concern is that political strategy should also be accompanied by a strong commitment to improving the lives of ordinary Nigerians.What advice would you give the ruling All Progressives Congress as it prepares for 2027?
Political leaders should remember that winning elections is only one part of governance. They must also address the challenges facing the people. Nigerians are experiencing serious economic pressures, and the government should give greater attention to affordability, employment, essential services and accountability.You have suggested that Nigeria’s democratic challenges did not begin under the present administration. Could you explain?
The difficulties we face have developed over time. It would be unfair to attribute every problem to one administration without examining what happened under previous governments. We need to look at the history of our political institutions and determine how successive administrations and political parties have contributed to the present situation.Some Nigerians are concerned about the possibility of excessive political concentration. How should this concern be addressed?
We should focus on the strength of our institutions, the independence of political parties and the ability of citizens to make free choices. Rather than relying only on labels, we should examine whether democratic institutions are functioning properly and whether political competition remains open and meaningful.How would you describe the economic situation confronting ordinary Nigerians?
Many families are under pressure from the cost of living, fuel expenses and the difficulty of meeting basic needs. Government must pay attention to these realities. Political leaders should go beyond campaign calculations and ask themselves what practical steps can improve the lives of citizens.You also spoke about corruption. What should be done to address it?
Corruption requires a firm and consistent response. Public resources must be managed transparently, institutions must be allowed to perform their oversight responsibilities, and public officials must be accountable for their decisions. These principles should apply regardless of political affiliation.What role should opposition parties play as the 2027 election approaches?
Opposition parties should organise themselves, develop credible policy alternatives and engage Nigerians on the issues affecting their lives. They should scrutinise government performance and explain what they would do differently. Political competition is useful when it gives voters meaningful choices and encourages better governance.What is your final message to Nigerians and political leaders ahead of 2027?
Nigerians should remain engaged in the democratic process and avoid losing confidence in the country’s future. Political leaders should remember that public office is a responsibility. We need stronger accountability, greater concern for ordinary citizens and a political environment in which competing ideas can be freely presented and evaluated.Nzelu
