African Democratic Congress (ADC) has described the United States’ military action against Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro as a strong warning to governments that lack democratic legitimacy.
In a statement issued on Monday in Abuja, the party’s national publicity secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, said the move highlighted the risks faced by regimes accused of electoral fraud, repression and denial of citizens’ rights.
While reaffirming the ADC’s support for national sovereignty and non-interference as outlined in the United Nations Charter, Mr Abdullahi said these principles should not be used to shield what he called tyranny and undemocratic governance.
“It is public knowledge that Venezuela’s 2024 presidential election was widely condemned by Latin American governments, the European Union and international democratic institutions,” he said, describing the vote as deeply flawed and lacking credibility.
According to the ADC, opposition candidates were barred from participating in the election, peaceful protests were violently suppressed and state institutions were used against citizens.
The party said these actions contributed to mass migration from Venezuela, undermining stability across the region.
The ADC acknowledged that the US intervention raised serious questions under international law, but argued that the public reaction within Venezuela pointed to a deeper legitimacy crisis.
“When citizens pour into the streets in celebration, it reveals more than approval,” Mr Abdullahi said. “It exposes the collapse of public confidence in the regime that has been removed.”
He also expressed concern that Nigeria had yet to issue an official response more than two days after the developments in Venezuela, urging the government to take a clear position.
The ADC said sovereignty should reflect the will of the people rather than the survival of political leaders, adding that democracy must deliver freedom, fairness and improved living conditions for citizens.
