A Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship aspirant in Lagos State, Prince Adelaja Adeoye, has urged Nigerians to resist any drift toward a one-party state.
He stressed the need to safeguard Nigeria's multi-party democracy, warning that recent defections into the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) suggested a growing attempt to entrench one-party dominance across the country.
Adeoye said this while reacting to the defection of former Kano State governor, Rabiu Kwankwaso, from the New Nigeria People's Party (NNPP) to the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
He said APC's control of 31 out of Nigeria's 36 states raised a concern of political imbalance and weakening opposition structures.
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Adeoye said: "A multi-party system empowers Nigerians to choose their leaders without fear or favour," Adeoye said.
"It deepens the democratic ideals upon which our republic is founded and guarantees accountability and responsive governance.
"For this to work effectively, INEC and the judiciary must remain impartial and professional in the discharge of their duties during the 2027 elections."
Adeoye said Nigeria's return to civilian rule in 1999 symbolised a deliberate shift from military dictatorship to democratic governance driven by the will of the people.
He, however, expressed concern over what he described as "systemic one-party drift" at sub-national levels through ongoing defections by opposition figures.
Adeoye alleged that some actions by the ruling party reflected "anti-democratic tendencies" aimed at weakening opposition parties.
"Another dimension to state capture has been introduced through attempts to hijack opposition parties and impose a one-party system through the back door.
"Nigerians are taking note of these undemocratic actions and will respond appropriately in defence of democracy," he added.
Adeoye cautioned against the use of state institutions to suppress opposition voices, describing such moves as unconstitutional and dangerous to democratic stability.
"Any attempt to deploy state institutions against opposition will provoke resistance from citizens, civil society groups and the international community," he said.
On his ambition, Adeoye said his governorship bid had continued to attract widespread support from party members and interest groups across Lagos State.
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He cited a recent endorsement from the Lagos for Prosperity Group (LPG) as a sign of growing confidence in his candidacy.
Adeoye said a broad coalition of opposition parties would be critical to achieving electoral victory and delivering meaningful change in the state and Nigeria.
He said his vision for Lagos is anchored on inclusive and transformative governance that prioritises the welfare of all residents.
According to him, his three-point agenda focuses on education, healthcare and security as key drivers of sustainable development.
He also pledged to address housing deficits through public-private partnerships aimed at delivering affordable homes to millions of Lagos residents.
Adeoye said economic diversification would be prioritised through investments in technology, SMEs, agriculture, tourism and industrial development.
He added that such initiatives would create sustainable jobs, particularly for youths, women and underserved communities.
The aspirant promised to improve transportation through expanded rail systems and modernised Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) networks.
He said environmental sustainability, transparency and grassroots engagement would define his administration's approach to governance. (NAN)
