The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria, HURIWA, has warned of what it describes as a “deepening pattern of political interference” aimed at weakening opposition parties ahead of the 2027 general elections.

In a statement on Monday, HURIWA alleged that powerful interests within the political system are working to fracture emerging alliances and influence electoral outcomes before Nigerians go to the polls. The group said such actions pose a threat to constitutional democracy.

HURIWA raised concerns about alleged political engineering involving actors within the Presidency, including the Office of the Chief of Staff headed by Femi Gbajabiamila. It claimed the office is being mentioned in political circles as a coordination point for managing internal fractures within opposition ranks through influence and inducement.

“What is unfolding is not normal political competition. It is a structured effort to destabilise opposition platforms from within and tilt the political space in favour of predetermined outcomes,” the statement read.

The group also expressed concern over attempts to exploit legal and institutional processes to frustrate new political formations such as the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC. It urged the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, to handle party registration strictly within constitutional boundaries.

HURIWA referenced ongoing opposition realignments involving Peter Obi and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, warning that any attempt to frustrate their participation would erode democratic competition. It further cautioned against the “judicialisation of political manipulation” and called on the judiciary to remain independent.

The association urged INEC to maintain neutrality and called on Nigeria’s democratic partners, including the US, UK, Canada, and EU, to monitor the country’s political climate closely.

“When opposition is systematically weakened and institutions are compromised, elections become rituals—not choices. Nigeria must not be pushed into that reality,” HURIWA concluded.