Human rights lawyer, Femi Falana (SAN), and the Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Gani Adams, have warned that Nigeria risks having a single presidential candidate in the 2027 general elections if judicial interference in party affairs persists.

They spoke on Thursday at the fifth Comrade Yinka Odumakin Memorial Lecture held in Ikeja, Lagos, where several labour leaders, activists and civil society actors gathered to discuss the state of Nigeria’s democracy.

Falana cautioned that conflicting court orders and what he described as the manipulation of the judiciary were destabilising political parties and shrinking democratic space.

“Through the manipulation of Nigerian courts and senior lawyers, you may have only one candidate contesting the presidential election in this country. If that happens, Nigeria may not even need to spend money on a presidential election,” he said.

He warned that limiting electoral choices could trigger unrest, urging civil society groups and labour unions to organise in defence of democratic values.

“We must stop agonising and start organising in the interest of our people and democracy,” Falana added.

Adams echoed similar concerns, warning that the country was gradually drifting towards a one-party system.

“We are moving towards a one-party system. Those in power are using the judiciary to suppress the will of the people. We may end up having only one presidential candidate if care is not taken,” he said.

He urged Nigerians to speak out against injustice regardless of ethnic or political affiliations, noting that silence could have long-term consequences.

The concerns come amid rising tensions over recent actions by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), including its decision to cease recognition of factions within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) following a court order.

Beyond electoral issues, Falana also renewed calls for restructuring, arguing that Nigeria currently operates a highly centralised system.

He noted that while some powers have been devolved through court rulings, many states have failed to utilise them effectively, particularly in areas such as electricity, railways and correctional services.

On the debate over state police, Falana warned of potential abuse by state governors but stressed the need for reforms in policing.

Other speakers at the event raised broader concerns about governance, insecurity and the concentration of power.

Nigeria Labour Congress President, Joe Ajaero, called for devolution of powers and resource control, while activist Omoyele Sowore warned of growing public frustration that could lead to mass unrest if not addressed.

The lecture, held in honour of late activist Yinka Odumakin, ended with renewed calls for citizens and institutions to defend democratic principles as political activities ahead of 2027 begin to intensify.