Nigeria’s Political Shift: Journey to a De Facto One-Party State

Nigeria’s political landscape has shifted towards a de facto one-party state, with the APC dominating following mass defections from opposition parties. Historical precedents and current crises within parties like the PDP and Labour Party illustrate the fragmentation of political competition. While Nigeria is legally a multiparty democracy, the effective governance outcomes are crucial regardless of the party system.

Nigeria’s political landscape has evolved significantly since the formation of its first party, the Nigerian National Democratic Party, in 1923. Following the Clifford Constitution of 1922, the country saw the rise of various political parties, including the Action Group and Northern Peoples Congress. Historically, Nigeria has prided itself on its multiparty systems, except during the short-lived two-party era under Military President Ibrahim Babangida in the early 1990s.

Presently, Nigeria boasts 19 registered political parties, officially sanctioned by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). However, observers are increasingly apprehensive about the shift toward a one-party state. It is essential to clarify that this definition does not mean the presence of only one party, but rather the dominance of a single party that suppresses serious competition from others.

Legally, Nigeria is recognized as a multiparty democracy, yet practically, it is operating as a one-party system. The mass exodus of politicians from various opposition parties to the All Progressives Congress (APC) has rendered the remaining parties ineffective. This situation bears resemblance to the period between 1999 and 2015, when the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) was unchallenged at the federal level. Despite witnessing a surge in the number of registered parties at one point, many were subsequently deregistered, reducing the political landscape to the current 19.

In countries like Ghana, the United Kingdom, and the United States, multiple parties exist alongside two dominant ones. For instance, in the US, while the Republican and Democratic parties lead, many other parties operate. Similarly, the UK has several active parties beyond its primary Conservative and Labour parties, with various regional and special interest groups. In Ghana, the National Democratic Congress and the New Patriotic Party dominate, even as the Electoral Commission recognizes more than a dozen parties.

Since the beginning of the Fourth Republic in 1999, the presidential elections have been essentially a competition between two parties: the PDP and the APC. Since 2015, the APC has maintained a firm grip on power, with proponents claiming Nigeria is now functionally a one-party state. This situation raises questions about the health of Nigeria’s democracy. The blame is often placed on the APC for its ascendancy, yet the opposition’s internal crises play a significant role.

Take the PDP, for example; it has grappled with leadership dilemmas since its 2015 defeat. The party has seen four different national chairmen in eight years, struggles that hinder its effectiveness. Following the withdrawal of major figures from the party, alongside continuous disputes over leadership, the PDP is unable to contest seriously. The Labour Party faces similar issues, as internal strife has plagued its operations since the last election cycle.

The New Nigeria Peoples Party also finds itself grappling with leadership conflicts post-election victory in Kano. The Anambra-based All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) only recently resolved its leadership crises after a Supreme Court ruling. A fragmented opposition allows for easy defection to the APC, reducing political competition. For instance, Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori publicly dissolved all PDP local structures to join the APC in April 2025.

The narrative that the APC is using state agencies to lure opposition members is not entirely accurate. Historical examples exist where political figures faced accusations yet did not switch parties. The motivations for defecting are often complicated, grounded in personal ambitions, aspirations for reelection, or benefits tied to government contracts. It is thus crucial to understand these dynamics that shape the current political situation.

While the consequences of Nigeria’s one-party reality may be detrimental to democracy, governance must extend beyond mere party affiliation. Nations like China, which operates as a one-party state, showcase developmental success. The pressing issues Nigeria faces—corruption, insecurity, and economic strife—prompt concerns about the effectiveness of its democratic arrangement. Ultimately, the focus should align with ensuring security and welfare for citizens, irrespective of the political system in place.

Without substantial improvements in governance, neither a multiparty nor a one-party system can satisfy citizens’ needs. Thus, it is imperative for Nigeria to prioritize effective leaders and policies that can advance the welfare of its populace, regardless of political affiliation.

In conclusion, Nigeria’s political landscape is experiencing a transition towards a dominant party system, particularly with the APC’s robust control over the political scene. Despite having legally established multiple parties, the effectiveness of opposition entities is waning due to internal strife. A single party’s dominance cannot be viewed as an ideal scenario for democracy. Yet, the solution lies within how political parties address their internal challenges while prioritizing governance and economic stability to enhance the lives of citizens.

Original Source: punchng.com