“Former Presidential Candidate Blasts Tinubu, Labels Him a ‘Civilian Dictator’

A former Nigerian presidential candidate has launched a scathing attack on President Bola Tinubu, accusing him of governing the country with authoritarian tendencies. In a fiery statement, the politician, who contested in the last election, described Tinubu as a “civilian dictator,” raising concerns over his administration’s handling of power and governance.

The ex-candidate, known for his outspoken views, condemned Tinubu’s leadership style, accusing him of centralizing power and stifling dissenting voices. He argued that Tinubu’s approach mirrors that of a military regime, despite being elected through a democratic process. “This is not democracy; this is dictatorship in civilian clothing,” he stated during a recent interview.

Allegations of Authoritarianism

The criticism comes amidst growing discontent over Tinubu’s policies, with opponents alleging that he is undermining Nigeria’s democratic institutions. Several civil society groups have voiced concerns over the president’s alleged disregard for the rule of law, including his handling of security forces and political opposition. The ex-candidate’s comments echo these sentiments, highlighting the growing divide between Tinubu’s administration and his critics.

The former presidential hopeful pointed to several incidents he believes demonstrate Tinubu’s authoritarian streak. These include the controversial use of security agencies to suppress protests, the clampdown on media freedom, and the president’s reluctance to engage in constructive dialogue with opposition figures. “Nigeria fought for democracy, but what we are witnessing today is a hijacking of that democracy,” he said.

Calls for Democratic Reforms

In addition to his criticism, the ex-candidate called for urgent democratic reforms, urging Tinubu to respect Nigeria’s constitutional processes and safeguard civil liberties. He emphasized the importance of preserving democratic values and ensuring that all voices, including those of the opposition, are heard. “A true democracy thrives on dissent and dialogue, not repression,” he added.

Despite the harsh rhetoric, the ex-candidate expressed hope that Tinubu could change course and steer Nigeria back on a democratic path. He encouraged the president to engage in meaningful reforms that promote transparency, accountability, and the rule of law. “It’s not too late for him to listen to the people and make amends,” he said.

Tinubu’s Response

So far, the Tinubu administration has not officially responded to the allegations. However, supporters of the president argue that his leadership is necessary to maintain stability in the face of Nigeria’s numerous challenges, including economic issues and insecurity. They claim that Tinubu’s firm approach is a reflection of his commitment to national progress.

As Nigeria continues to navigate its political landscape, the accusations of authoritarianism against Tinubu are likely to remain a point of contention in the country’s political discourse.