Seyi Makinde has warned that Nigeria’s democracy could be at risk of sliding into a one-party system if opposition parties fail to resolve internal crises and present credible alternatives to the ruling government.
The governor of Oyo State made the remarks in a recent newsletter, where he expressed concern over what he described as growing threats to democratic pluralism in the country. He noted that weakening opposition structures and increasing political pressure on dissenting voices are contributing to a dangerous imbalance in Nigeria’s political landscape.
Makinde cautioned that voices opposing the emergence of a one-party state are increasingly being marginalised, stressing that such a trend could undermine accountability and good governance.
According to him, the survival of Nigeria’s democracy depends on active participation from both political actors and citizens. He warned that political apathy and internal divisions within opposition parties could accelerate the country’s drift toward a system dominated by a single party.
The governor further emphasized that the issue goes beyond party politics, describing it as a national concern that affects the future of democratic governance. He urged opposition groups to rebuild trust, strengthen internal democracy, and offer viable policy alternatives capable of engaging the electorate.
Makinde’s warning comes amid ongoing crises within major opposition parties, particularly the Peoples Democratic Party, which has been grappling with factional disputes and defections. Political analysts say these internal challenges have weakened the opposition’s ability to effectively challenge the dominance of the ruling All Progressives Congress.
Recent political developments, including a wave of defections and legal disputes within opposition ranks, have further heightened concerns about the possibility of a one-party dominance ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Makinde concluded by calling for renewed commitment to democratic values, urging stakeholders to remain engaged in safeguarding Nigeria’s multiparty system and preventing what he described as a gradual erosion of political competition.