ABUJA, Nigeria — In a recent address, Nigerian President Bola Tinubu firmly dismissed allegations that there are attempts to transform Africa’s largest democracy into a one-party state. He clarified that the administration is not utilizing state mechanisms to lure prominent opposition figures into joining the ruling party.
In recent developments, a notable number of governors and federal legislators have shifted allegiance from their respective opposition parties to align with Nigeria’s All Progressives Congress (APC). Abdullahi Ganduje, chairman of the APC, stirred controversy by suggesting there was “nothing wrong” with Nigeria evolving into a one-party system, a statement that has sparked concern given the fragile democratic space in parts of the country.
During his Democracy Day speech to federal parliament members, President Tinubu declared that he would never support the dissolution of Nigeria’s multiparty framework in favor of a single-party regime. He emphasized his commitment to preserving the nation’s democratic principles. “At no time in the past, nor any instance in the present, and at no future juncture shall I view the notion of a one-party state as good for Nigeria,” Tinubu stated firmly.
Meanwhile, Lagos, Nigeria’s economic center, witnessed protests organized by young citizens. The demonstrators expressed dissatisfaction with the current administration, accusing it of misusing state resources and failing to govern effectively for the welfare of the populace.
Debo Ologunagba, spokesman for the main opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), claims the weakening opposition is due to President Tinubu’s exploitation of “compromised state apparatus” to target opposition figures. Nigerian law enforcement agencies often face criticism for allegedly conducting biased anti-corruption campaigns that favor the ruling party while undermining opposition politicians.
Ologunagba urged Nigerians to remain vigilant against any attempts to impose authoritarian one-party rule in the country. Within the governing party itself, certain members have voiced opposition to the prospect of Nigeria transitioning into a single-party state.
Senator Ali Ndume of the APC shared his concern, indicating that “one-party dominance is a sign of the death of democracy.” He emphasized the necessity for a political system that discourages the defection of political figures, to maintain a healthy and competitive democratic environment.