Jonathan warns against move to one-party system

DDM News

Former President Goodluck Jonathan has raised serious concerns about the direction of Nigeria’s democracy.

He warned against efforts that may lead the country into becoming a one-party state.

Jonathan made these comments in Abuja on Wednesday.

He was speaking during a memorial lecture in honor of the late elder statesman, Chief Edwin Clark.

Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) reports that his remarks come at a time of rising political tension in Nigeria.

There has been a noticeable wave of defections by opposition politicians to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Internal crises have also rocked opposition parties like the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Labour Party.

Political analysts believe these issues are being influenced by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

They argue that the APC is seeking to weaken the opposition and consolidate power ahead of future elections.

Jonathan warned that turning Nigeria into a one-party state would be dangerous for national development.

He noted that some countries may choose to operate under a one-party system, but only through a careful and deliberate process.

“Any nation that must practice it must do so carefully and with a well-planned process and projected outcome,” Jonathan stated.

He said any move to impose a one-party system through political manipulation would harm Nigeria’s democratic progress.

According to him, selfish ambitions must not override national interest.

Jonathan stressed that political machinations designed to serve personal goals could destabilize the country.

He called on political actors to respect the principles of democracy.

He added that true democracy thrives on a healthy opposition.

The absence of vibrant opposition, he said, leads to authoritarianism and the loss of public trust.

Jonathan’s comments reflect growing public unease with the current political climate in Nigeria.

Many civil society groups and commentators have voiced similar concerns in recent months.

The APC currently holds power at the federal level and controls most state governments.

This dominance has made it difficult for opposition voices to gain traction.

The memorial lecture also featured key national figures.

Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 election, also addressed the gathering.

Obi expressed dissatisfaction with Nigeria’s current state of affairs.

He said the country was not living up to the sacrifices of its founding fathers.

“The labor of our heroes past is already in vain,” Obi declared.

He cited poverty, insecurity, and high living costs as signs of national failure.

Obi argued that patriotic Nigerians like Pa Edwin Clark would be disappointed with the present situation.

He emphasized the need for a new national direction focused on fairness and accountability.

General Yakubu Gowon, a former Head of State, chaired the event.

He also called for unity and patriotism among Nigerians.

Gowon said the country could only move forward when national interest comes before personal ambition.

He paid tribute to Chief Edwin Clark’s legacy of service and dedication.

Clark was a prominent Ijaw leader and one-time Federal Commissioner for Information.

He remained an influential figure in national affairs for decades.

He was widely respected for his advocacy for minority rights and national unity.

Jonathan encouraged Clark’s family to institute an annual memorial lecture in his honor.

He said the lecture series would help preserve and promote Clark’s ideals.

The memorial brought together political leaders, activists, and stakeholders from across Nigeria.

It served as both a tribute and a call to action for defending democratic values.

Jonathan’s warning has reignited debate on Nigeria’s political future.

Many fear that without strong opposition, democracy in Nigeria could be seriously undermined.

The events unfolding in Nigeria underscore the importance of vigilance in safeguarding democratic systems.

As political tensions rise, voices like Jonathan’s serve as reminders of the country’s hard-won democratic journey.

They also highlight the need for leaders to put national interest above personal or party gains.

Nigeria’s future depends on its ability to uphold democratic norms and ensure inclusive governance.

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