Babangida Aliyu Warns Nigeria Is Sliding Toward a One-Party State Under APC

Former Governor of Niger State and Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Former Governors’ Forum, Dr. Babangida Aliyu, has raised serious concerns over what he described as Nigeria’s gradual but dangerous drift toward a one-party political system under the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Aliyu sounded the alarm while addressing an interactive session involving the PDP National Working Committee (NWC) and the Forum of Former Ministers, where he spoke on behalf of former PDP governors.

According to Aliyu, recent political developments in the country point to a shrinking democratic space marked by sustained pressure on opposition parties, rising defections allegedly induced by intimidation or patronage, and the weakening of institutions meant to protect political pluralism. He warned that if unchecked, these trends could undermine Nigeria’s democratic foundations and erode hard-won civil liberties.

“We observe with deep concern the aggressive maneuvers by the ruling party to systematically weaken and obliterate the opposition,” Aliyu stated. “The relentless poaching of opposition figures, coupled with the weaponization of state institutions to silence dissent, are ominous signs that Nigeria is sliding dangerously toward a one-party state.”

Aliyu stressed that his warning went beyond partisan interests, arguing that the erosion of opposition politics poses a direct threat to democratic accountability. In his view, a vibrant opposition is essential for checking executive excesses, strengthening legislative oversight, and ensuring that citizens retain meaningful choices at the ballot box.

“This is not merely a threat to the PDP as a party,” he added. “It is an assault on the democratic rights of every Nigerian, regardless of political affiliation.”

Despite his concerns, Aliyu expressed optimism about the future of the PDP, congratulating the party’s newly elected National Working Committee and affirming the full backing of former governors. He specifically praised the leadership of the PDP National Chairman, Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, SAN, whom he credited with initiating reforms aimed at repositioning the party.

“The PDP is not dead; it is evolving,” Aliyu declared. “Under the leadership of Barrister Tanimu Turaki, the party is rediscovering its sense of purpose, internal discipline, and unity. These qualities are essential if we are to rebuild and reassert ourselves as a credible alternative.”

In his remarks, Turaki sought to rally party faithful, insisting that the PDP’s record during its 16 years in power remains unmatched. He argued that Nigeria’s current socio-economic challenges—ranging from rising inflation to declining purchasing power—have forced many Nigerians to reassess the party’s legacy in government.

According to Turaki, the period between 1999 and 2015 represented a “golden era” of governance, during which Nigeria experienced economic expansion, institutional strengthening, and relative national cohesion. He cited the liberalisation of the telecommunications sector, banking sector reforms, debt relief through the settlement of the Paris Club obligations, and the establishment of anti-corruption agencies such as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).

“There was a time when competence spoke louder than propaganda,” Turaki said. “Nigerians remember the years when the country became Africa’s largest economy, when foreign debt was cleared, and when the middle class was expanding rather than shrinking.”

Also speaking at the meeting, former Kano State Governor and two-time federal minister, Senator Ibrahim Shekarau, who represented the Forum of Former Ministers, urged the new NWC not to relent in its reform efforts. He commended the committee for stabilising the party amid internal challenges and political pressure.

“You have done more than expected under difficult circumstances,” Shekarau said. “The rebuilding process is not easy, but the signs are encouraging.”

The forum formally endorsed the new NWC leadership, expressing confidence that the PDP is gradually repositioning itself to play its role as a strong opposition party.

Aliyu concluded by cautioning that democracy thrives not on the dominance of one party, but on competitive politics, institutional independence, and respect for dissent. He urged Nigerians across party lines to remain vigilant and defend democratic principles, warning that history has shown that the absence of effective opposition often leads to authoritarianism.

As political realignments continue ahead of future elections, Aliyu’s remarks have reignited debate over the state of Nigeria’s democracy, the balance of power, and whether the country’s political system is becoming dangerously skewed in favour of a single dominant party.