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Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation, is fast becoming a one-party state, with democracy hanging precariously in the balance or so it may seem. The current brazen disregard for democratic principles and institutions threatens to unravel the fabric of the country’s fragile democracy. The ruling party’s insatiable appetite for power has led to a mass exodus of opposition politicians, with many defecting to the ruling party amidst allegations of inducement, harassment and coercion. This development has raised concerns about state capture, where the ruling party is systematically dismantling opposition voices.
The defection of several PDP governors and other state and Federal lawmakers to the ruling APC between 2024 to 2026 raised eyebrows, with many questioning the legitimacy of their new affiliations. This move was seen as a calculated attempt to strengthen the ruling party’s grip on power, further weakening the opposition. In Edo state, the convoy of ADC Chieftains led by Peter Obi was violently attacked. In Rivers State, the ADC party office was razed down by yet to be identified arsonists. Some members of the opposition coalition were framed with corruption and treason charges. The detention of Malam El-rufai without trial raises concern. Likewise the timing of the prosecution of key opposition figures like Malami, the former Attorney General of the Federation. The implications are clear: Nigeria is hurtling towards a one-party state, where dissenting voices are silenced, and the ruling party reigns supreme.
The legislative and judicial arms of government have been reduced to mere puppets, dancing to the tune of the executive. The National Assembly, once a bastion of democracy, now rubber-stamps the executive’s whims, while the judiciary has been compromised, issuing contradictory and vague judgments that undermine the democratic process. The recent sacking of opposition governors and lawmakers by the judiciary, only to be later reinstated, is a stark example of this trend. In one instance, the judiciary declared a ruling party candidate winner of a gubernatorial election, only to reverse its decision weeks later, citing “new evidence.” Such contradictory judgments have eroded public trust in the judiciary, leaving many wondering if justice is for sale. The once fledging People’s Democratic Party has been turned into a mess by the judiciary.
Institutions like INEC and security agencies, meant to be neutral, have been captured and weaponised against opposition voices. Key opposition figures, including Nasir El rufai and others, remain in detention without trial, a stark reminder of the government’s disregard for fundamental rights and the Rule of Law. The detention of these individuals has sparked widespread outrage, with many calling for their immediate release. Electoral laws are being manipulated to favour the ruling party, with the introduction of clauses that restrict opposition participation and voter access. The recent amendment to the Electoral Act, which introduced stricter voter registration requirements, has been criticised for disenfranchising millions of eligible voters.
Voter apathy has become a major concern and threat to democracy, as citizens increasingly believe their votes don’t count. The suppression of votes, particularly in opposition strongholds, has led to widespread disillusionment. The government’s response to dissent has been to weaponise hunger and violence, targeting vocal critics, journalists, and opinion leaders with harassment and intimidation. Some journalists have faced the brunt of this crackdown, with some forced into exile or detained on trumped-up charges.
The targeting of opposition figures is not limited to politicians. Civil society organisations, activists, and ordinary citizens who dare to speak out against the government face intimidation, harassment, and violence. The arrest of human rights activist, Ime Silversmiths, for criticising the government’s handling of security issues is a case in point. This toxic environment has stifled free speech, with many afraid to express dissenting opinions and also constrict the democratic space.
The international community must take notice of Nigeria’s democratic backslide. The current government’s actions are not just an affront to Nigerian citizens but a threat to regional stability. Sovereignty is not a shield to protect a regime that denies its citizens their democratic rights. The EU, AU, and other stakeholders must hold the Nigerian government accountable for its actions. The people of Nigeria deserve better than a government that treats them with contempt.
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The opposition must unite and amplify its voice, taking the struggle to international forums. The Labour Party and PDP, once dominant opposition forces, are now embroiled in internal crises, allegedly fuelled by government interference. The judiciary’s interference in these crises has only added to the chaos, with multiple factions claiming legitimacy. This is a clear attempt to weaken the opposition, paving the way for a one-party state.
The Sokoto governorship election is a prime example of the judiciary’s meddling in the democratic process. The tribunal initially declared the APC candidate winner, only for the Court of Appeal to overturn the decision, citing electoral irregularities. However, the Supreme Court later reinstated the APC candidate, citing “procedural irregularities.” This contradictory judgment has raised questions about the judiciary’s impartiality.
In Kosofe, the judiciary allowed an APC-aligned faction to claim legitimacy despite allegations of irregularities in the PDP primaries. This vague judgment has instigated a crisis in the PDP, further weakening the opposition.
The statistics are telling: over 10 opposition politicians detained without trial, according to Amnesty International. The 2025 budget has been criticized for its lack of transparency, with many allocations shrouded in secrecy. Over 50 PDP lawmakers defected to APC from 2023, a clear indication of the ruling party’s influence.
Nigeria’s democracy is at a crossroads. The current government’s actions will either strengthen or destroy the country’s fragile institutions. The world watches as Nigeria teeters on the brink of collapse. The time for silence is over. Nigeria’s democracy is on life support. It’s time for Nigerians to rise and demand a government that respects their rights and choices.
The government must take concrete steps to address these concerns, including the release of detained opposition figures, reforming the electoral process, and ensuring the independence of critical institutions. Anything short of this will be a betrayal of the Nigerian people’s trust. The international community must act now to prevent a catastrophic collapse of democracy in Nigeria. The stakes are high, and the consequences of inaction will be dire. Democracy in Nigeria is suffering because of slumbering democracy.
