We Don’t Like One-Party State In Nigeria, Says APC Chieftain

A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Farouq Adamu Aliyu, has dismissed concerns that Nigeria is drifting toward a one-party state, describing such claims as subjective and rooted in elite rivalry rather than a real democratic threat.

Speaking during an interview on ARISE NEWS, Aliyu insisted that the ruling party has no intention of allowing a one-party system to emerge. According to him, the debate reflects struggles among political elites and does not represent the interests of ordinary Nigerians.

“This is very subjective because anybody can say whatever they want. It has nothing to do with a one-party state. In fact, we don’t like a one-party state and we will not allow it to take place in this country. This is an elite fight; it has nothing to do with the masses,” he said.

He urged citizens to distinguish between politicians who genuinely serve the public and those driven by personal ambition, stressing that governance should remain people-focused.

Aliyu said a one-party system is not in Nigeria’s best interest but that the opposition must organise itself or risk being harvested.

“It is not in the best interest of this country to have a one-party state. We don’t want it. But if the opposition does not gather themselves together, we will harvest,” he cautioned.

Addressing concerns about the perceived low public visibility of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Aliyu said the APC is more concerned with national development than personalities, emphasizing that governance should be judged by policies and outcomes rather than appearances.

He also reiterated that Nigerians ultimately hold the power to determine the party’s future, noting that if the APC fails to meet expectations, voters can remove it from office in 2027.

On the issue of opposition strength, Aliyu warned that while a one-party state is undesirable, a weak and disorganised opposition risks being politically overwhelmed. He encouraged Nigerians to hold their elected representatives accountable through elections or recall processes where necessary.

Discussing the party’s zoning arrangement, Aliyu described the North-South rotation of power as an informal but effective mechanism for maintaining national unity. He expressed hope that Tinubu would complete two terms, after which the presidency would rotate back to the North, while emphasizing that leadership should not be based on ethnicity or religion.

Commenting on Tinubu’s recent visit to the United Kingdom, Aliyu defended the trip, noting that Nigeria must remain engaged with the global community. He added that international partnerships, including loan agreements, are pursued in the country’s interest and do not compromise national sovereignty.

Aliyu maintained that Nigeria’s democracy remains intact, with citizens retaining the ultimate authority to shape the country’s political direction.