The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Abdullahi Ganduje, has stated that there is nothing wrong with Nigeria becoming a one-party state, asserting that such a system could bring stability and effective governance.
Ganduje made the remarks on Friday after leading a delegation of three senators from Kebbi State to meet with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the Presidential Villa. The senators — Adamu Aliero, Yahaya Abdullahi, and Garba Maidoki — all elected under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), reportedly declared their intention to defect to the ruling APC.
Addressing concerns about the implications of ongoing defections for Nigeria’s democratic landscape, Ganduje said the wave of politicians joining the APC was a testament to the party’s leadership and governance. He argued that a one-party system could be a democratic choice if driven by popular support and political realignment.
“If a one-party state is a wish and blessing to Nigeria… a one-party state is not by force. One party’s state is by negotiation, and it is by other political parties seeing the effect of the positive governance of our party,” Ganduje said.
He further added: “We came here so that Mr. President can bless this resolution, and Mr. President has graciously blessed this resolution. On Tuesday, I urge you to go and see what will happen in the chambers.”
Using China as a model, Ganduje pointed to the Asian powerhouse’s political structure as proof that a one-party system can work effectively. “China is one of the strongest countries in the world, and it’s a one-party system,” he remarked.
The comments have sparked mixed reactions, with critics warning that a one-party system could undermine democratic principles and limit political pluralism, while supporters argue that political consolidation could enhance policy consistency and governance outcomes.
This latest development comes amid ongoing concerns over the health of Nigeria’s multi-party democracy, as defections continue to reshape the political landscape ahead of future elections.
