Renowned political strategist and public affairs analyst, Dr. Usman Bugaje, has raised the alarm over what he describes as an emerging threat to Nigeria’s democratic foundations, accusing the All Progressives Congress (APC) of systematically using financial inducements to buy off members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
In a strongly worded statement released today, Bugaje expressed deep concern over the recent wave of defections from the PDP to the ruling APC, which he alleges are being orchestrated through backdoor deals and cash incentives. He warned that the erosion of opposition parties through such tactics poses a significant danger to Nigeria’s democratic integrity.
“What we are witnessing is not politics as usual—it is the dismantling of the opposition by financial coercion. If the APC continues down this path, we are heading toward a one-party state, and democracy as we know it will be a thing of the past,” said Bugaje.
Dr. Bugaje, a former member of the House of Representatives and a long-time advocate for political reform, criticized both parties for failing to uphold democratic values. However, he singled out the ruling party for “weaponizing state resources” to manipulate the political landscape.
He called on civil society, the media, and the international community to remain vigilant and hold political actors accountable, urging Nigerians to resist what he called the “monetization of democracy.”
“We must not allow our democracy to be sold to the highest bidder. This trend, if not urgently addressed, will breed autocracy and stifle political plurality, which is essential for good governance,” he added.