society
Fear, Fractions and Factions: Why the APC Government Fears the Coalition More Than an Election Defeat.
Fear, Fractions and Factions: Why the APC Government Fears the Coalition More Than an Election Defeat.
By George Omagbemi Sylvester | Published by SaharaWeeklyNG.com
In a country bruised by decades of misgovernance, economic sabotage and elite manipulation, one would assume that any attempt to salvage the democratic space through coalition-building would be celebrated. Unfortunately, that is not the case in Nigeria. What we are witnessing is not a democratic government promoting political plurality, but a ruling regime that has become allergic to dissent and terrified of unity among the opposition.
The fear is EVIDENT. The panic is LOUD. The desperation is SHAMELESS.
The recent waves of government-led intimidation, including the bullying of event centres meant to host the official unveiling of the opposition coalition and the curious emergence of factional crises within the newly adopted platform, are nothing short of coordinated political sabotage. These are not coincidences; they are state-sponsored tactics driven by an irrational fear of being held accountable in 2027.
Why the Fear?
The question on every conscious Nigerian’s lips is simple: Why is the APC government so scared of this coalition?
It is because, for the first time since 2015, Nigerians from all walks of Life (market traders, students, civil servants, religious leaders and even former APC loyalists) are beginning to find hope in something that is not wrapped in a broom. The coalition, despite its imperfections, is perceived as a potential people’s movement not just a merger of political interests. That frightens the cabal that currently profits from Nigeria’s status quo.
This coalition represents a direct threat to the monopolistic control APC has over Nigeria’s electoral machinery, state resources and security institutions. A united opposition disrupts the illusion of invincibility the APC has built over time, especially since it has used defections and factionalism as tools to divide and conquer any opposing force.
Bullying Tactics: A Hallmark of a Dying Regime.
It is a tale as old as African politics; when an authoritarian-leaning government sees its grip slipping, it doesn’t tighten its belt; it reaches for the baton. From pressuring event centres to cancel bookings, to using the Department of State Services (DSS) and police to intimidate political opponents, the APC is clearly exhibiting what Chinua Achebe called “the MADNESS of the FALLING TREE.”
This regime thrives on chaos. If it cannot CO-OPT you, it will CRUSH you. If it cannot DIVIDE you, it will DEMONIZE you. If it cannot DISCREDIT you, it will FABRICATE a crisis within your ranks.
The emergence of new factions in the opposition party barely 48 hours after the coalition’s unveiling is suspect. As former Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu once warned, “Nigerian politics is not just a game of INTEREST; it is a game of INFILTRATION.” These factions do not represent ideological disagreements; they are symptoms of a larger plan to weaken the coalition before it gains grassroots traction.
A Regime Built on Fear, Not Performance.
The APC government’s paranoia is not baseless, it is earned. Under its watch, Nigeria has become the global capital of poverty, food insecurity has skyrocketed and insecurity continues to claim lives daily. The fuel subsidy removal was done with the swiftness of a dictator’s pen but without a sustainable economic cushion for the people. Naira devaluation has made basic commodities unaffordable. Foreign investors are fleeing. Universities are constantly on strike; and now, they borrow to pay salaries in most states.
According to data from the Debt Management Office (DMO), the Buhari administration left a debt burden of ₦48 trillion. In just two years, President Tinubu has doubled it to ₦96 trillion, without providing basic subsidies for education, transportation, health or fuel. This level of borrowing (combined with hyper-inflation and high unemployment) has made the APC extremely vulnerable to voter revolt in 2027. Hence, the coalition must not be allowed to breathe.
Senator Shehu Sani said it best: “The APC is not afraid of the opposition’s incompetence; it is afraid of the opposition’s unity.”
Defections Mean Nothing Without Will-power.
One may argue that almost all state governors are defecting to the APC, thus neutralizing the threat posed by the opposition. However, this assumption fails to recognize that in today’s Nigeria, party loyalty no longer means ideological alignment, it means self-preservation. Most of these defectors are driven by fear of EFCC investigations or the desire to secure second-term tickets, not any genuine love for APC.
Moreover, Nigerian voters are more politically aware today than in 2015. The #EndSARS generation is not silent anymore. The diaspora is mobilizing. The youth are watching. The citizens have seen what a united front like Labour Party could achieve even without deep structures. Imagine what a real coalition with grassroots presence, electoral agents and shared manifesto could do in 2027.
As political analyst Jide Ojo notes, “The 2023 elections broke the myth that only the ruling party can win. It showed that with passion, coordination and purpose, the so-called political giants can be retired.”
The Strategy of Intimidation Will Backfire.
By trying to suffocate the coalition in its infancy, the APC is planting the seeds of its own downfall. History has shown us that popular movements are strengthened by oppression. The African National Congress (ANC) in apartheid South Africa, the Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) in Zimbabwe, and even NADECO in Nigeria, all thrived under government intimidation.
Trying to destabilize a people’s project with DSS & EFCC intimidation and political faction creation only gives it more attention and moral legitimacy.
Governor Nyesom Wike once said, “You cannot be in government and still behave like an opposition. You have all the instruments of governance. Use them to govern, not to persecute.” Sadly, the APC behaves like a wounded opposition even while holding power.
A Call to the Nigerian People.
This moment is bigger than parties or coalitions. This is a fight for Nigeria’s democratic soul. The coalition may not be perfect, but it is currently the only serious alternative that the APC fears. That alone is worth defending. Let the people (especially the youth) rally around the idea, not just the personalities. Let the agenda (not just the anthem) be revolutionary.
We must not allow this moment to be stolen by the usual games of betrayal, bribery and internal sabotage. The price of failure is too high. Nigerians must recognize that this government’s obsession with crushing the coalition is not about protecting the people; it’s about protecting the looters of the future.
In Summary
The APC government’s fear of the coalition is not rooted in morality but in survival. They know what they’ve done. They know what they’ve failed to do and they know that a united opposition armed with the people’s voice is the one thing that could end their reign.
To quote the late Dora Akunyili: “You cannot cover a smoke with bare hands.”
The more the APC tries to suppress the coalition, the more obvious their guilt becomes. Nigerians must rise and defend this window of change, before it’s too late.
Written by George Omagbemi Sylvester
Published by SaharaWeeklyNG.com
society
UKA Gears Up for Final ATC Exchangeability Test Run as June Preparations Begin
UKA Gears Up for Final ATC Exchangeability Test Run as June Preparations Begin.
May 30, 2026 – As the month of June gathers momentum, the *United Kingdom of Atlantis, UKA*, a sovereign nation has unveiled a series of vital guidelines and preparatory packages to ensure citizens and stakeholders run the *ATC Exchangeability* process effectively.
In an official update, the *President of Atlantic Crown Limited, Empress of Attica Empire UKA*, confirmed that the *Final Test Run of ATC Exchangeability* is scheduled for the month of June 2026. The exercise marks a key phase ahead of the *Official Exchangeability Window, set to run from July 2026 to February 2027*.
### Key Highlights from the Presidential Briefing
1. *Final Test Run – June 2026*
The test run is designed to validate systems, procedures, and user readiness before full activation. Citizens, partners, and designated participants are urged to follow all official advisories released by UKA authorities during this period.
2. *Official Exchangeability Period*
Following the successful completion of the June test run, the Official Exchangeability will commence in july 2026 and we are Expecting Full Exchange ability between July Ending, 2026 to February 2026.
UKA stated that detailed schedules, eligibility requirements, and step-by-step instructions will be communicated progressively through verified UKA channels.
3. *Benefiting Packages for June*
In line with UKA’s commitment to citizen empowerment, the month of June will feature “benefiting packages” aimed at education, preparation, and seamless onboarding. These packages are intended to equip the people of UKA with the knowledge and tools needed for effective participation.
4. *Commitment to Transparency*
Addressing the nation, the Empress of Attica Empire UKA emphasized:
_“Final Test Run of ATC Comes up in The Month of June, As We Prepare For The Official Exchangeability, Between July 2026 To Feb 2027. All Information Will Be Communicated.”_
UKA reaffirmed that only information released through official UKA platforms should be regarded as authoritative.
The United Kingdom of Atlantis is encouraging all citizens, representatives, and interested parties to remain alert to official communications, attend designated orientation sessions, and avoid unofficial sources. UKA’s dedication to order, clarity, and the collective benefit of its people as the nation moves into this significant phase.
For updates, advisories, and participation guidelines, citizens are advised to monitor official UKA communication channels.
United Kingdom of Atlantis, UKA, is a sovereign nation, committed to national development, citizen welfare, and structured economic participation through initiatives such as ATC Exchangeability.
society
Three Years On, General Buratai Hails Tinubu’s Economic, Security Achievements
Three Years On, General Buratai Hails Tinubu’s Economic, Security Achievements
Former Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai (retd.), has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as bold economic reforms and improved security efforts as the President marks three years in office.
In a goodwill message on Thursday to commemorate Tinubu’s third anniversary as President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Buratai said the administration had taken courageous decisions that would leave a lasting impact on Nigeria’s development.
According to him, President Tinubu broke a long-standing cycle that had hindered national growth by removing fuel subsidy and implementing foreign exchange reforms aimed at stabilising the naira and strengthening the economy.
He noted that the reforms were beginning to yield positive results, citing the global acceptance of Nigerian debit cards, the gradual revival of local refineries, access to student loans, and ongoing road and infrastructure projects across the country.
“The FCT Administration has also recorded remarkable progress, completing major road projects that remained unfinished for over 16 years,” Buratai stated.
The former army chief also praised the administration’s security efforts, saying renewed military offensives against insurgents, terrorists and bandits had led to notable successes across various parts of the country.
He specifically lauded recent joint operations involving Nigerian and United States forces against Boko Haram and ISWAP in the North-East, as well as intensified counter-banditry operations in the North-West.
“We have seen notorious ISWAP commanders being neutralised. I congratulate the Commander-in-Chief, the Minister of Defence, the Chief of Defence Staff, the Service Chiefs, the Inspector-General of Police and heads of intelligence agencies for their efforts,” he said.
Buratai, however, acknowledged that challenges remained, stressing the need for more aggressive military operations and intelligence-driven strategies in the coming year.
While urging Nigerians to remain hopeful, he said celebrating the President’s achievements did not amount to ignoring the difficulties facing the nation.
“Because you truly care, you have shown the courage to trade short-term comfort for long-term hope. Nigerians need your reassurances, and that is why we remain optimistic and full of confidence,” he added.
The retired military officer reaffirmed his support for the Tinubu administration and expressed confidence that the foundation being laid by the government would deliver a brighter future for the country.
He also prayed for God’s guidance, wisdom, strength and good health for the President as he continues to lead Nigeria.
society
NUT Raises Alarm Over Continued Captivity of Abducted Oyo Pupils, Teachers
NUT Raises Alarm Over Continued Captivity of Abducted Oyo Pupils, Teachers
The Nigeria Union of Teachers has expressed deep concern over the continued captivity of pupils and teachers abducted during an attack on schools in the Ahoro-Esinle and Yawota communities in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the Oyo State wing of the union described the situation as increasingly distressing, particularly following the emergence of a video allegedly released by the abductors showing the victims pleading for their freedom.
The union said the footage had heightened fears over the welfare of the abducted pupils and teachers, describing their ordeal as heartbreaking and unacceptable.
According to the NUT, no child or teacher deserves to be subjected to such traumatic experiences, adding that the prolonged captivity of the victims has continued to inflict psychological pain on their families, colleagues and the wider education community.
The union called on the Federal Government, Oyo State Government and relevant security agencies to intensify efforts towards securing the immediate and safe release of the victims.
“This is not a moment for hesitation. It is a moment for coordinated, intelligence-driven efforts to ensure the immediate and safe release of all abducted pupils and teachers,” the statement read.
While acknowledging ongoing interventions by security agencies and government authorities, the union stressed that time was of the essence, warning that every additional day in captivity deepens the trauma suffered by the victims.
The NUT urged security operatives to strengthen surveillance, improve community intelligence gathering and deploy all necessary operational and diplomatic measures to facilitate the rescue of the abductees.
It also appealed to traditional rulers, community leaders and residents to support rescue efforts by providing credible information that could assist security agencies.
“The safety of our children and teachers must remain a collective priority,” the union stated.
Reaffirming its support for the families of the victims, the NUT pledged continued solidarity and prayers while advocating safer learning environments across the country.
The statement was jointly signed by the Chairman of the Oyo State NUT, Comrade Hassan Ajibola Fatai, and the Secretary, Comrade Salami Olukayode.
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