Human rights lawyer and activist, Dele Farotimi, has argued that votes do not count in Nigeria, calling for fundamental restructuring and a possible revolution to rescue the country from what he described as dictatorship.

Farotimi made the remarks in a video shared on X, where he expressed doubts about the effectiveness of elections in bringing about meaningful political change.

According to him, Nigeria is experiencing what he described as the democratic installation of a dictatorship, warning that the judiciary could legitimise electoral outcomes unless citizens take collective action.

He said revolution remains the most viable option for saving the country, although he acknowledged that meaningful change could still come through the ballot if voters unite behind a clear vision for a new Nigeria.

Farotimi urged Nigerians to focus on a shared national vision rather than individual political personalities, arguing that such a vision could mobilise citizens to defend their votes.

He said, “Your vote does not count, and the judiciary will endorse it unless you and I decide to do something about it.”

The activist maintained that restructuring was essential to Nigeria’s future, adding that citizens must be convinced of a common vision to achieve meaningful political transformation.

He also criticised what he described as excessive focus on partisan politics at the expense of broader discussions about the country’s future.