A former National Legal Adviser for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Mark Jacob, has sharply criticized the conduct of the August 16, 2025 by-elections and re-runs held across 13 states, calling them a major setback for Nigeria’s democratic process.
Speaking on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief, Jacob lamented a return to an era where political might and control over state institutions determine election outcomes.
“We are back to the old days, the strongest person in government, controlling government agencies, wins, no matter what,” he stated.
Jacob cited a disturbing incident in Kaduna State where a candidate and approximately 25 supporters were reportedly abducted during a strategy meeting, sidelining their participation in the elections.
Despite this, the election proceeded, and some celebrated the outcome.
He also alleged that PDP candidates in other states were intentionally arrested before the polls, describing these tactics as antithetical to democracy.
“If you have political power and control of state apparatus, you’re bound to win. But winning by power at the polls is not something to celebrate or condone,” Jacob emphasized.
Expressing dismay at the judiciary’s role, he accused the courts of acting more like an arm of the ruling party, rather than impartial arbiters of justice.
He warned of weakening democratic checks and balances, observing that the legislative arm has become merely an extension of the executive, given that the executive orchestrates elections and insists on capturing every seat.
