Nigeria drifting towards one-party state — Makinde

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has raised concerns over the state of Nigeria’s democracy, warning that the country is gradually drifting towards a one-party system.

 

Makinde made this known in a newsletter titled “The Business of Governance,” where he expressed fears that opposition voices are being weakened and pushed to the margins.

 

According to him, recent developments involving political parties, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and the judiciary are raising serious questions about the future of democratic governance in Nigeria.

 

“These are not just political issues; they concern anyone who believes in the future of democracy in our country,” he said.

 

The governor noted that individuals who speak against the emerging trend are being threatened, while others are withdrawing from national conversations due to fear or loss of confidence.

 

“Today, voices that speak up against Nigeria devolving into a one-party State are being openly threatened. Opposition is being fragmented, constrained, or pushed to the margins,” Makinde stated.

 

He warned that weakening opposition could erode accountability and make governance less responsive to citizens’ needs.

 

“A healthy democracy depends on balance; on the presence of credible alternatives, strong institutions, and the confidence citizens have in the process,” he added.

 

Makinde, however, said Nigeria has not reached a point of no return but cautioned against complacency.

 

“I do not believe Nigeria has reached a point of no return. But I do believe we are at a point where silence, indifference, or withdrawal could take us in a direction we may later struggle to reverse,” he said.

 

He called on both leaders and citizens to remain actively engaged in protecting democratic values and institutions, stressing that democracy thrives on plurality and accountability.