By Nchetachi Chukwuajah
Oyo State governor, Seyi Makinde, has raised the alarm that those speaking up against Nigeria devolving into a one-party state are being openly threatened, saying that such threats raise concerns about the future of the country’s democracy.
Makinde stated this in a newsletter entitled ‘The Business of Governance,’ noting that recent political developments indicate a shrinking democratic space, with opposition voices increasingly being silenced.
According to him, the recent developments within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as well as actions by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the judiciary are issues that should bother anyone concerned about the country’s democratic future.
He said: “I hope you are well despite the challenges in our dear country. Developments within the Peoples Democratic Party and the African Democratic Congress along with recent positions taken by INEC and the judiciary are raising important questions. These are not just political issues; they concern anyone who believes in the future of democracy in our country.
“I am also aware that many of you are watching closely as we approach a transition period in Oyo State. And that you have questions about continuity, leadership, and the future direction of our state.
“We have engaged with a number of credible individuals as part of a deliberate transition process, and I will communicate a decision in due course, one that reflects both the progress we have made and the future we must secure.
“But beyond this, I believe there is a broader conversation we cannot afford to ignore – Nigeria devolving into a one-party state.
“This has led to some people beginning to withdraw quietly from conversations about our future because they feel their voices no longer matter.”
The governor further noted that democracy thrives when there is balance, alternatives, strong institutions, and citizens’ confidence in the process that brings any government to power, stressing that opposition voices are critical to the survival of democracy.
He said, “A healthy democracy depends on balance; on the presence of credible alternatives, strong institutions, and the confidence citizens have in the process.
“Today, voices that speak up against Nigeria devolving into a one-party state are being openly threatened. Opposition is being fragmented, constrained, or pushed to the margins.
“Democracy is not built on agreement. It is built on plurality, on the presence of different voices, including those we may not agree with, because that is what keeps a system open, accountable, and responsive.”
Makinde also called on leaders and citizens to shun complacency and get engaged in conversations and actions that will ensure institutions work for the people.
“Our democracy will not be protected by silence; it will be protected by those who stay engaged, ask questions, and insist that our institutions work for the people. Talk to you again soon,” he said.
