Jonathan Warns Against Covert One-Party System In Nigeria.
Former President Goodluck Jonathan has cautioned against the covert establishment of a one-party system in Nigeria, warning that such a move could destabilise the nation’s fragile democracy. Speaking at a memorial lecture in honour of the late elder statesman, Chief Edwin Clark, Jonathan emphasised the dangers of political manipulation aimed at sidelining opposition parties.
Jonathan noted that while countries like Tanzania have successfully implemented a one-party system, it was properly planned and executed. However, Nigeria’s complex ethnic, religious, and political landscape necessitates a more inclusive political framework. “If we must, as a nation, adopt a one-party system, then it must be designed, planned by experts—and we must know what we are getting into,” he said.
Jonathan’s remarks come amid growing concerns about the shrinking space for opposition politics in Nigeria. There have been increasing numbers of defections to the ruling All Progressives Congress, and civil society groups have expressed concerns about creeping authoritarianism.
Other speakers at the event, including Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi and former Head of State General Yakubu Gowon, echoed Jonathan’s sentiments, stressing the importance of unity and national interest above personal ambition. Obi lamented that the sacrifices made by Nigeria’s founding fathers and nationalists were “already in vain” due to the current state of insecurity, poverty, and rising cost of living.
The event highlighted the need for inclusive politics and the importance of preserving Nigeria’s democracy.
