One Party State: Is Nigeria’s Democracy Under Threat?

Nigeria’s democracy once hailed as a beacon of hope for West Africa, now finds itself at a critical crossroads. As power continues to concentrate within a single dominant political party, many Nigerians are beginning to ask a troubling question: Is the country sliding into a one-party state?

Since the return to civilian rule in 1999, Nigeria has operated a multiparty system. However, the practical reality has often pointed to the dominance of one political party at a time — first the PDP for 16 years, and now the APC since 2015. With each election cycle, the opposition appears weaker, internal party democracy erodes, and voter apathy increases. This growing imbalance poses a serious threat to the health of Nigeria’s democracy.

A one-party state, whether by design or default, stifles dissent, undermines accountability, and erodes the checks and balances that are vital in a functioning democracy. When the ruling party controls not just the executive arm but also wields disproportionate influence over the legislature, judiciary, security agencies, and electoral bodies, democracy becomes a façade.

Nigeria’s democratic system thrives only when opposition parties are vibrant, ideologically grounded, and able to hold the ruling party to account. Sadly, frequent cases of political defections, electoral manipulation, and a weak civic culture have left the opposition fragmented and ineffective. The line between state and party interests grows increasingly blurred, leaving citizens with fewer real choices at the ballot box.

Yet, the answer to this looming threat does not lie in despair. It lies in the collective awakening of the Nigerian people. Civil society, the media, youth movements, and independent institutions must rise to strengthen democratic values and demand reforms. The opposition must redefine its purpose — not just as an alternative, but as a credible force for national development.

In the end, democracy is not just about elections — it’s about institutions, inclusion, accountability, and justice. Nigeria still has a chance to reverse the tide, but the clock is ticking.