Nigeria Democratic Front Praises Bauchi Governor for Challenging Tinubu Administration
The Nigeria Democratic Front (NDF), a civil society organization, has praised Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed for publicly criticizing what it describes as harassment of opposition parties by the administration of President Bola Tinubu.
In a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Ikenna Ellis-Ezenekwe, the group said it supports Governor Mohammed’s comments alleging that federal agencies are being used to intimidate opposition politicians.
The NDF accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Tinubu administration of applying pressure through agencies such as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).
As an example, the group cited the recent arrest and detention of Bauchi State’s Commissioner for Finance, who is facing charges related to fraud and alleged terrorism financing.
The NDF said the accusations were made without evidence and described the case as politically motivated.
“The EFCC has levelled allegations of fraud and terrorism financing against the Bauchi State Government without publicly presenting proof,” the statement said, describing the situation as an attempt to weaken the opposition.
The group also referred to concerns raised by Governor Mohammed over the arrest and detention of several members of the Bauchi State Executive Council.
It is alleged that some officials were being pressured to defect to the APC.
According to the NDF, the use of federal agencies in this manner poses a threat to democratic norms and the rule of law.
It called on the Tinubu administration to show restraint and uphold the principles of multiparty democracy.
The group urged the president to allow opposition parties to operate freely, warning that political intolerance could undermine national stability.
The NDF also commended Governor Mohammed for what it described as his courage in speaking out, and encouraged other opposition governors and elected officials to do the same.
Relations between the ruling APC and opposition parties have become increasingly strained in recent months, with repeated allegations of intimidation and political persecution.
The federal government has denied claims that security and anti-corruption agencies are being used for partisan purposes.
The NDF’s statement adds to the growing public debate over the role of federal institutions in Nigeria’s political contest and the broader state of democracy in the country.
