President Bola Tinubu on Thursday dismissed claims that his administration is steering Nigeria toward a one-party state.
The denial follows a wave of defections by high-profile opposition figures to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), raising concerns about democratic erosion.
Party chairman Abdullahi Ganduje recently stirred controversy by suggesting there was “nothing wrong” with Nigeria becoming a one-party state.
In his Democracy Day address, Tinubu declared his support for multiparty democracy, calling himself “the last person” to endorse a one-party system.
“At no time…shall I view the notion of a one-party state as good for Nigeria,” Tinubu told federal lawmakers in Abuja.
Outside the halls of power, protesters filled Lagos streets, condemning the government for alleged corruption and worsening living conditions.
Opposition leaders claim Tinubu’s government is using law enforcement to pressure political opponents into defection.
“The president is using compromised state apparatus,” said Debo Ologunagba, spokesperson for the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Nigeria’s security agencies are often accused of selectively targeting opposition members while shielding ruling party allies.
Ologunagba warned citizens to resist “the plot to foist a despotic one-party regime in Nigeria.”
Even within Tinubu’s own party, criticism has surfaced over the trend of defections and growing dominance.
“One-party dominance is a sign of the death of democracy,” said APC senator Ali Ndume, urging political inclusivity and structural reforms.
As Africa’s largest democracy navigates economic woes and political tension, fears of democratic backsliding continue to mount.
