FORMER GOVERNOR DONALD DUKE LIKENS PRO-TINUBU OPPOSITION FACTIONS TO ABACHA-ERA "FIVE LEPROUS FINGERS"

Former Cross River State Governor criticizes opposition politicians endorsing the administration, warning that political fragmentation and co-opted political platforms risk entrenching one-party dominance ahead of 2027

Former Governor of Cross River State, Donald Duke, has sharply criticized opposition political figures and parties offering endorsements for President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid, likening their posture to the "five leprous fingers" of the late General Sani Abacha era.  

Speaking on political developments across the nation, Duke expressed deep concern over the increasing fragmentation within rival political platforms and the growing trend of opposition leaders declaring allegiance to the ruling party.

Drawing a historical parallel to the late 1990s, when five political parties under the military junta simultaneously adopted General Abacha as their consensus candidate, Duke argued that current cross-party endorsements undermine democratic pluralism and legislative oversight.

The former governor emphasized that an effective presidential democracy requires a strong, unified opposition capable of offering viable policy alternatives rather than splintering into co-opted political factions that ultimately consolidate power around the incumbent administration.  

He observed that early political realignments and cross-party declarations risk creating a de facto one-party system where genuine political competition is systematically eroded ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Duke urged genuine opposition leaders to set aside personal ambitions and work towards building a cohesive political bloc to maintain institutional checks, balance executive power, and preserve the integrity of Nigeria's electoral process.