The African Democratic Congress, ADC, presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has asked President Bola Bola Tinubu to learn from former presidents Goodluck Jonathan and Muhammadu Buhari, saying they never deregistered opposition political parties.

Atiku made the call on Saturday in reaction to an attempt to deregister the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, through the courts.

The former Vice President said attempts to restrict political competition run contrary to democratic principles and could erode public confidence in the electoral process.

“Former Presidents Goodluck Jonathan and Muhammadu Buhari never deregistered opposition political parties. Copy and learn from them.

“If you’re truly popular and your policies have positively bettered the lives of the citizens, you shouldn’t be afraid of a free and fair competition,” Atiku said.