‘Civilian dictator’: NDC national leader, Sen. Dickson, warns Tinubu against weakening democratic institutions

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National Chairman of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Senator Seriake Dickson, has cautioned President Bola Ahmed Tinubu against actions capable of undermining Nigeria’s democratic institutions, warning that there is little distinction between a civilian and military dictator when constitutional safeguards are weakened.

Dickson made the remarks at the Diplomatic Digest 6th Anniversary Lecture, according to a statement shared on the NDC’s official social media platforms on Friday.

The former Bayelsa State governor stressed the need to protect Nigeria’s democratic gains by upholding the Constitution, safeguarding judicial independence, preserving press freedom and ensuring the independence of the electoral body.

“Democracy is not a sprint; it is a marathon. There are twists and turns, as well as ups and downs. What is important is a commitment to democratic governance, observance of the rule of law, democratic principles, a free and independent media, an impartial judiciary, and an electoral body that is truly independent and enjoys the confidence and trust of the people.

“Without these essential elements, there is little difference between a civilian dictator and a military dictator,” Dickson said.

He acknowledged that Nigeria had successfully transitioned from military rule but warned that elected leaders must not erode democratic institutions under the guise of democratic governance.

The former Bayelsa governor also expressed concern over what he described as growing threats to democratic values across Africa, particularly within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

According to him, Nigeria’s leadership role in the sub-region has diminished under the current administration’s foreign policy.

“It is unfortunate that, under the APC government and its dysfunctional foreign policy, ECOWAS has weakened before our very eyes. The emergence of breakaway blocs, such as the Alliance of Sahel States, does not speak well of Nigerian leadership,” he said.

Dickson urged President Tinubu to ensure that state institutions were not deployed for partisan purposes, warning that governments perceived as operating above the Constitution would eventually lose public trust.

“When a government is perceived as oppressive, dictatorial, and above the Constitution and the institutions of the state, it inevitably loses the confidence and support of its citizens.

“When a government or political party begins to see itself as bigger than the nation, the Constitution, the judiciary, and other democratic institutions, it loses legitimate and popular support. This remains one of the greatest threats to democracy in the ECOWAS sub-region and in Africa in general,” he added.