Seyi Makinde, the governor of Oyo State, has warned that Nigeria may be progressively moving toward a one-party state and expressed concern about what he called a rising threat to the country’s democratic structure.
Makinde reportedly sounded the alarm in a newsletter titled “The Business of Governance,” in which he considered the consequences of recent political developments for the country’s democratic future.
The governor stated in the newsletter published on Sunday that the state of Nigeria’s democracy was being questioned due to developments within the country’s major political parties and the activities of its democratic institutions.
“I hope you are well despite the challenges in our dear country,” Makinde stated. Important questions are being raised by recent views adopted by INEC and the court, as well as developments inside the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
“Anyone who believes in the future of democracy in our country is concerned about these issues; they are not just political.”
In addition, the governor addressed ongoing conversations regarding Oyo State’s political transition, reassuring locals that consultations were already in progress to guarantee governance continuity.
“I am also aware that many of you are watching closely as we approach a transition period in Oyo State and that you have questions about continuity, leadership, and our state’s future direction,” he stated.
“As part of a deliberate transition process, we have engaged with a number of credible individuals, and I will communicate a decision in due course that reflects both the progress we have made and the future we must secure.”
Makinde cautioned that if opposition voices are still marginalized, the nation’s democratic structure may deteriorate.
“Beyond this, though, I think there is a larger discussion about Nigeria becoming a one-party state that we cannot afford to ignore,” he stated.
He claims that while opposing groups are being marginalized, those who voice concerns about the matter are increasingly being threatened.
“Those who speak out against Nigeria becoming a one-party state are being openly threatened today.” The governor said, “The opposition is being pushed to the periphery, divided, or constrained.”
The Governor Calls on People to Protect Democracy
Makinde emphasized that diversity and a range of viewpoints are essential to democracy.
“Balance, strong institutions, credible alternatives, and citizen confidence in the process are all necessary for a healthy democracy,” he stated.
He cautioned that a lack of participation and silence could erode democratic responsibility.
“I do not think Nigeria has reached a point of no return,” the governor declared. However, I do think that we are at a moment when disengagement, apathy, or quiet could lead us in a course that we could find difficult to turn around later.
Makinde went on to say that active citizen participation is essential to safeguarding democracy.
“Democracy is not built on agreement,” he stated. It is based on diversity and the existence of various voices, including those with which we may disagree, as this is what maintains a system responsive, open, and responsible.
The governor stated that he will soon start holding discussions about ways to improve Nigeria’s democratic institutions with stakeholders from a variety of sectors.
“There is no need to panic. However, this is also not a time to be complacent. He stated, “It is a call for awareness and a call for all of us, leaders and citizens alike, to continue being involved in safeguarding the democratic space that gives our shared future meaning.”
He exhorted Nigerians to stay involved in the country’s democratic transition.
“Nigeria has come too far for us to become indifferent,” Makinde said. Silence won’t save our democracy; people who remain involved, raise issues, and demand that our institutions serve the interests of the people will.
