Political Actors Have Weakened Nigeria’s Democracy — Baba Ahmed

By Omoyeni Ojeifo

Akeem Baba-Ahmed, the National Chairman of the People’s Redemption Party (PRP), has accused Nigerian politicians of eroding political values and transforming governance into a purely transactional enterprise.

According to Baba-Ahmed, a succession of civilian and military leaders—alongside contemporary politicians—have systematically weakened the nation’s democratic culture.

He noted that leaders consistently prioritize personal and electoral gains over genuine public service.

Speaking during an interview on Channels Television, monitored by Persecondnews on Sunday evening, he argued that the behaviour of political actors over time has undermined ideology and accountability in governance.

He said Nigeria’s political system has shifted away from principles and public service delivery to what he described as transactional politics driven by self-interest.

“The politicians and the military that governed this country for a very long time, and the transactional politicians we see today, have done more damage to this country than anything else,” he said.

Baba-Ahmed maintained that the consequences of this trend are evident in insecurity, economic challenges and weak governance outcomes across the country.

He, however, insisted that the situation is reversible, arguing that insecurity and governance failures are not beyond solution if there is committed leadership.

“Nigerians made this country insecure and Nigerians can fix it. It is not a miracle,” he said.

On political realignments ahead of future elections, he confirmed that there had been discussions between the PRP and allies of former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, but said the talks ended without an agreement.

According to him, the discussions broke down over issues relating to party structure, ticket considerations and recognition by the Independent National Electoral Commission.

He added that opposition parties may still explore coalition arrangements ahead of the next election cycle, noting that such alliances could be necessary to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress in 2027.