The Niger Delta Youth Congress (NDYC) has called for the protection of opposition voices and stronger safeguards for Nigeria’s multiparty democratic system, warning against actions that could undermine political pluralism and institutional stability.
Speaking at the group’s secretariat in Warri, Delta State, NDYC National Coordinator, Comrade Israel Uwejeyan, said recent political developments highlighted growing threats to democratic norms, particularly the treatment of opposition parties and internal crises within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Read also:Rural Nigerian Mothers Face Deadly Gap in Malaria Protection
The congress noted that recent comments by Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, had reignited national debate on constitutionalism, institutional independence and the role of opposition parties in a democracy. It stressed that dissent and political disagreement should not be mistaken for disloyalty, warning that shrinking the space for opposition weakens accountability and good governance.
NDYC expressed concern over persistent internal divisions within the PDP, describing them as harmful to party cohesion and effective democratic competition. It cautioned that weakening opposition parties through intimidation, inducement or internal sabotage could have far-reaching consequences for democratic stability.
The group also raised alarm over ongoing political tensions in Rivers State, warning that prolonged instability could affect governance, development and public confidence. It accused former governor Nyesom Wike of continued interference that has fueled political crises and institutional paralysis in the state.
Reaffirming its commitment to democratic values, the NDYC urged political leaders to prioritise dialogue, fairness and respect for constitutional processes, stressing that Nigeria’s democracy can only thrive through institutional independence and protection of political pluralism.
