Chief of Staff to President Bola Tinubu, Femi Gbajabiamila, has described the recent coalition of opposition leaders under the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as a healthy development for Nigeria’s democracy, saying it will help prevent the country from drifting into a one-party state.
Gbajabiamila made the remarks on Saturday after casting his vote during the Lagos State local government election in Surulere.
The former Speaker of the House of Representatives acknowledged the importance of opposition parties in any democracy, noting, “It’s a welcome development.
In every democracy, we must have some level of opposition, otherwise we risk becoming a one-party state. But I’m not sure where it will go.”
His comment comes in the wake of the unveiling of ADC as a platform by key opposition figures—including Atiku Abubakar and others—to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 general elections.
The move has generated mixed reactions, with some seeing it as a serious threat to the APC, while others remain skeptical about its impact.
Speaking further on Saturday’s LG election, Gbajabiamila described the voting process as peaceful, free, and fair, though he expressed disappointment at the low voter turnout.
“There’s a need for more voter education,” he said.
“People don’t fully understand how crucial local government elections are, even more than many other elections.
“Grassroots governance is the foundation of development.”
His remarks contrast with recent comments by former APC National Chairman, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, who appeared unbothered by the idea of Nigeria becoming a one-party state.
Ganduje had argued that if Nigerians chose the APC based on its governance record, a one-party system should not be feared.
He also criticized the multi-party structure, stating, “Too many political parties spoil governance.”
However, President Tinubu had earlier dismissed the possibility of Nigeria becoming a one-party state.
During this year’s Democracy Day address to a joint session of the National Assembly, he said, “Nigeria will not become a one-party state.
“That is not on the table. But we also won’t stop anyone who wishes to join the APC.”
The renewed momentum among opposition parties and the varying views within the APC leadership reflect Nigeria’s ongoing political recalibration ahead of the 2027 elections.
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