Catholic Bishops in Nigeria have raised the alarm over what they described as the suppression of opposition voices, warning that the country is gradually sliding into a one-party state.
The bishops expressed this concern in a communiqué issued at the end of the plenary meeting of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), which held in Akwa Ibom State and ended on Friday.
The communiqué was signed by the Archbishop of Owerri and President of the CBCN, Lucius Ugorji, and the Secretary, Bishop Donatus Ogun.
According to the bishops, recent political developments point to an unhealthy concentration of power in the hands of the ruling party, coupled with increasing intolerance for dissent and disregard for the principles of separation of powers. They stressed that such trends pose grave dangers to Nigeria’s democracy.
“The shrinking of the democratic space, intimidation of opposition figures, and the weakening of democratic institutions are signals that must not be ignored,” the bishops warned. “A one-party system is not only inimical to national development but also dangerous for peace, justice, and the unity of the country.”
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They called on the Federal Government to take urgent steps to safeguard multiparty democracy by strengthening institutions, ensuring inclusive governance, and protecting the independence of the judiciary and legislature.
The bishops further demanded comprehensive electoral reforms, noting that the credibility of elections remains a major test of Nigeria’s democratic progress. They urged the National Assembly and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to work together in addressing flaws in the electoral process in order to guarantee free, fair, and transparent elections.
The Catholic leaders reminded political actors that democracy can only thrive in an atmosphere where opposition is respected, the will of the people is allowed to prevail, and leaders are held accountable to the governed.
