One-Party State Dangerous, Will Suffocate Nigeria, Lead to Anarchy, Warns Jonathan
Former President Goodluck Jonathan has warned that Nigeria’s democracy is under threat as the country edges closer to becoming a one-party state.
He said such a development would suffocate the democratic space, silence dissenting voices, and ultimately lead to national instability and possible anarchy.
Speaking at a national symposium commemorating Democracy Day, Jonathan expressed concern over the dominance of one political party in Nigeria’s political landscape, noting that democracy thrives on pluralism and competitive politics—not hegemony.
“A one-party state is dangerous. It will suffocate Nigerians and could eventually lead to anarchy. It is about participation and inclusion, not domination and exclusion,”Jonathan warned.
He criticized the prevailing “winner-takes-all” political culture, which he said promotes desperation among politicians and fuels do-or-die politics.
Jonathan urged for a system that allows for broader participation in governance.
“We must rethink the structure of our political system. If a political party secures at least 30% of the votes, it should have a stake in governance. That way, we promote inclusion, national unity, and reduce political tension,” he proposed.
Jonathan also decried the growing politicization of ethnicity and religion in Nigerian politics, warning that these divisive tactics could undermine national cohesion and destroy the integrity of democratic institutions.
“Ethno-religious politics is not sustainable. It is dangerous for the survival of our democracy,” he said.
His remarks echo similar concerns raised by the Northern Youth Leaders’ Forum (NYLF), which recently warned that Nigeria is on the path to becoming a one-party state.
The group called on Nigerians to defend democratic principles and reject any attempt to marginalize opposition voices.
Jonathan’s call for reform comes at a time when Nigeria’s political climate is marked by increasing defections to the ruling party, raising alarms among civil society groups, opposition parties, and democracy advocates.
As Nigeria continues to grapple with political realignment and rising concerns over democratic backsliding, Jonathan’s remarks serve as a stark reminder of the importance of inclusivity, equity, and balance in governance.
