Nigeria's Emerging One-Party State: A Dangerous Precedent
~~Ahman Makams
Governor Soludo's announcement that APGA will adopt President Bola Tinubu as its 2027 presidential candidate is deeply troubling and raises serious concerns about the future of democracy in Nigeria. While Soludo cites "progressivism" and ideological alignment as justification, this thinly veiled endorsement reeks of political expediency and threatens to transform Nigeria into a de facto one-party state.
The claim of shared ideology between APGA and the APC rings hollow. APGA's previous support for Goodluck Jonathan in 2011 and its subsequent fielding of Peter Umeadi in 2023 demonstrates a lack of consistent ideological commitment. This current move appears less about genuine political alignment and more about consolidating power within a shrinking political landscape.
The implications are far-reaching. The absence of a robust opposition presents a significant danger to democratic accountability. Without genuine competition, the ruling party is less likely to be responsive to the needs of the people. The potential for corruption and authoritarianism increases exponentially when there’s no effective mechanism to check the executive's power. The claim that APC couldn't win an election without such maneuvers speaks volumes about the party's own perception of its popularity.
The assertion that "progressives are working well together" is a dangerous simplification. True progressivism necessitates checks and balances, robust debate, and a commitment to representing diverse interests. The current situation fosters an environment where dissent is stifled and the voices of ordinary Nigerians are effectively silenced. The suggestion that this move is somehow beneficial for the people ignores the historical evidence that demonstrates the dangers of unchecked power.
The situation raises fundamental questions about the state of Nigerian democracy. Is this a calculated move to maintain power at all costs, fueled by corruption and a disregard for the democratic process? The silence, or worse, acquiescence, of other political parties only exacerbates the problem. The lack of a strong opposition indicates a deeper malaise within the Nigerian political system, a systemic weakness that requires urgent attention.
This is not about who occupies the presidential seat in 2027; it's about the very future of democracy in Nigeria. The path toward a one-party system is fraught with peril, and Nigerians must demand better from their political leaders. The question "Which way forward for Nigeria?" is no longer rhetorical; it's a desperate plea for a return to genuine democratic principles and a system that prioritizes the well-being of all citizens over the selfish ambitions of a few.
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