By Alabi Oluwasore
Since the 2023 elections, opposition parties in Nigeria have largely focused their energy on securing political relevance and criticising the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), often overshadowing the need for constructive engagement and policy-driven alternatives. Their approach, while part of democracy, has raised concerns about whether the opposition is more interested in propaganda than in offering real solutions.
It is normal, and indeed healthy for opposition voices to question government policies and demand accountability. Democracy thrives on debate and diverse opinions. However, when such criticism becomes excessive, repetitive, or rooted in personal and partisan battles, it risks losing substance. What Nigerians often see today is a cycle of attacks aimed at discrediting the APC government rather than providing clear policy alternatives.
This style of opposition politics carries serious consequences. First, it distracts from national discourse on key issues like insecurity, unemployment, and inflation, as debates are reduced to trading blames. Second, it erodes public trust in the opposition itself, as many citizens begin to view them as desperate for power rather than prepared to lead. In the long run, such tactics weaken democracy by replacing reasoned arguments with noise.
It must also be made clear that pointing out these flaws does not amount to supporting APC. The ruling party, like any government, deserves scrutiny and must be held accountable for its promises. But governance also requires breathing space. Constant politicised attacks can destabilise the system, slow down implementation of policies, and create an atmosphere where every decision is politicised before it is tested.
For opposition parties to gain credibility, they must shift from propaganda to policy. Nigerians deserve to hear their concrete ideas on how to fix the economy, strengthen education, reform security, and reduce poverty. Offering solutions does not only strengthen democracy but also prepares them for the responsibility of governance should power change hands.
Democracy is not just about winning elections; it is about contributing meaningfully to national progress. Nigeria needs a responsible opposition, one that challenges the government with facts, proposes alternatives, and gives citizens hope beyond criticism. Until that happens, opposition politics risks being seen not as a guardian of democracy, but as an obstacle to good governance.
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