ONE-PARTY STATE: Weak Opposition Threatens Nigeria’s Democracy, Makinde Warns

Governor Seyi Makinde has raised the alarm over the survival of Nigeria’s democracy, warning that the country is currently on a “slow drift” toward a one-party state. Speaking at the Government Banquet Hall in Ibadan, the Governor asserted that the systematic weakening of opposition voices is a precursor to democratic failure.

The summit, currently underway in the Oyo State capital—which Makinde described as the “headquarters of politics in the South-West”—has drawn a broad spectrum of opposition stakeholders from across Nigeria. Discussions are centering on pressing national issues, emerging political alignments, and strategic preparations ahead of the 2027 general elections. High-profile attendees include former presidential candidate Peter Obi, former Senate President David Mark, Professor Jerry Gana, factional PDP chairman Saminu Turaki, and political strategist Pat Utomi.

Makinde maintained that democracy is not destroyed overnight but is instead eroded step-by-step until the populace begins to feel the system no longer works for them. He emphasized that once the opposition becomes ineffective, democracy itself loses its core meaning.

“Democracy without opposition is not democracy,” the Governor declared, adding that the presence of a credible opposition should never be viewed as a threat to the ruling party, but rather as the essential force that sustains a healthy democratic culture. He noted that the survival of the system depends on Nigeria remaining open, competitive, and accountable.

Urging the gathered political actors to rise above partisan lines, Makinde called for a sense of responsibility that requires leaders to think clearly, speak honestly, and act with integrity. He stressed that the ambition of Nigerians for a properly defined democracy must outweigh the interests of any single political party.

Addressing guests at the venue, which is currently undergoing minor renovations, the Governor apologized for any technical “teething problems” but insisted that the urgency of the political conversation necessitated the gathering. He concluded by reminding stakeholders that the responsibility to prevent further democratic drift rests on the shoulders of all citizens.