Democracy thrives only when political parties are allowed to operate independently — Amb. Yabo
From Bashir Rabe Mani in Sokoto
Former Nigeria’s Ambassador to Jordan, Amb. Faruk Malami Yabo, says democracy thrives only when political parties are allowed to operate independently and compete freely without interference or intimidation.
Our Correspondent in Sokoto reports that the ex-Envoy was affirmed on Thursday as the candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), for the Sokoto South Senatorial District.
Briefing newsmen in Sokoto on Friday, b. Faruk Malami Yabo, however, expressed concern over what he described as “deliberate attempts to weaken opposition parties through internal destabilization and external interference.
“In every democracy, political parties should be allowed to function based on their constitutions and internal structures.
“What we are seeing now infiltration and deliberate destabilisation of opposition parties is dangerous for democracy
“
The former Commissioner of Finance as.well as Local Governments in Sokoto State also spoke attempts to weaken opposition voices, cautioning that this could push Nigeria towards “authoritarianism if not checked by democratic institutions and the electorate.”
The former Envoy further urged that Nigerians must remain vigilant and committed to protecting democratic values, political pluralism and the rule of law ahead of future elections.
He opined, “The survival of democracy in Nigeria depends largely on credible elections, strong institutions and the ability of citizens to freely determine their political future without coercion or manipulation.”
Amb. Yabo further cautioned against “undermining Nigeria’s democratic system through alleged political infiltration and the suppression of opposition parties.”
He attributed the growing public support for his candidature to what he called the people’s desire for credible leadership, inclusive governance and a clear political vision for Sokoto State.
The candidate also used the opportunity to publicly applaud the former Sokoto State Governor and Senator representing Sokoto South Senatorial District , Sen. Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, for withdrawing from the race in his favour.
Amb. Yabo described the decision as an act of rare statesmanship that attracted national attention and strengthened unity within the opposition movement.
“I must sincerely extend my profound gratitude to Sen. Aminu Waziri Tambuwal for deciding to step down for me.
“His action generated major national attention and demonstrated maturity, sacrifice and leadership,” he said.
According to him, replacing Sen.Tambuwal, a former Speaker of the House of Representatives politically would remain a difficult task, adding, ” because of the former Governor’s extensive political experience and contributions to both Sokoto State and Nigeria.”
Amb Yabo recalled Tambuwal’s political journey from the House of Representatives, where he represented Tambuwal/Kebbe Federal Constituency beginning in 2003, to becoming Speaker of the House of Representatives between 2011 and 2015, before serving two terms as Governor of Sokoto State and later emerging as a Senator.
“Tambuwal’s political influence and achievements have continued to shape politics in Sokoto State and beyond.” Yabo stated.
Speaking on his own political trajectory, the Senatorial hopeful explained that his movement from the APC to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in 2023 was driven by ideology and vision rather than personal ambition.
He insisted that he and his political associates joined the PDP at a time when key positions within the party had already been occupied, stressing that their intention was not to displace established party members but to contribute meaningfully to governance and development.
“We joined the PDP because we believed in a vision for Sokoto State. It was not about fighting for positions because many of the major positions had already been taken before we came,” he stated.
He further argued that despite the PDP losing at certain levels during the last election cycle, the party maintained strong support in parts of Sokoto State due to what he described as the confidence reposed in it by the people.
Amb. Yabo further said that the emergence of a “broad opposition coalition under the African Democratic Congress (ADC) was a response to growing fears over democratic backsliding and the alleged concentration of political power by the APC.”
