Democracy Weakens When Opposition Is Silenced

The decision by the Lagos State Government under Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to seal the African Democratic Congress (ADC) rally venue in Alimosho is troubling. What should have been a routine political gathering was instead turned into a display of intolerance, raising concerns about the maturity of our democratic institutions.

Healthy democracies are sustained by the free contest of ideas. A confident ruling party has no reason to fear opposition. Citizens expect leaders to persuade with vision and performance, not to silence rivals through administrative overreach. Blocking a legally approved rally does not convey strength; it exposes insecurity.

Equally troubling is the contradiction between rhetoric and reality. While political leaders often speak of inclusivity, fairness, and democratic openness, such values are undermined when dissent is curtailed. In a society where citizens are increasingly aware and engaged, these inconsistencies do not go unnoticed.

Moreover, in the digital age, efforts to stifle opposition rarely achieve their intended purpose. Instead, they risk backfiring drawing greater attention to the very groups being targeted and eroding public trust in governance. Heavy-handed tactics amplify dissent rather than suppress it.

Ultimately, the survival of any political party depends not on coercion but on trust, credibility, and the ability to compete constructively. Lagos, and indeed Nigeria, must recognize that true strength lies not in shutting doors to rivals but in opening them to genuine competition. Only then can democracy be deepened and sustained.