By David E. Monday
Media Consultant, Political Commentator & Public Affairs Analyst
3rd November,2025
In every true democracy, diversity of ideas and competition among political parties form the oxygen that sustains the system. But when one party dominates the political landscape, the balance of power becomes distorted and the very soul of democracy is tested.
Nigeria today stands at such a crossroads.
The All Progressives Congress (APC) from the federal level to several states has enjoyed sweeping dominance since 2015. But what does this dominance mean for Nigeria’s democracy? Is it a sign of political maturity, or a warning that democratic vibrancy is being silenced?
The Meaning Behind One Party Dominance,
One party dominance doesn’t necessarily mean a one party state rather, it’s a system where one political party consistently wins elections, controls key institutions, and shapes public discourse almost unchallenged.
It can create stability, continuity, and long-term policy implementation. But it can also breed complacency, weaken accountability, and suppress opposition voices.
When citizens begin to believe that only one party can rule, democracy loses its essence because democracy thrives not just on elections, but on choice.
Can a One-Sided Voice Build a Better Nigeria?
A one-sided political voice might deliver uniformity, but not necessarily progress.
Nations advance when ideas are tested, challenged, and refined through debate.
A democracy with one dominant voice risks turning into a monologue of power, where leadership speaks to itself and not to the people.
True progress demands a marketplace of ideas, not a monopoly of ideology.
The Misconceptions and the Reality
Some argue that one-party dominance brings political stability and in countries like Japan or South Africa, long-dominant parties have driven development.
But stability without accountability often leads to stagnation.
Nigeria’s challenge is not in who rules, but in how power is exercised.
Dominance without checks can lead to abuse; opposition without vision can lead to irrelevance. Both sides have work to do.
Should Nigerians Embrace a One-Party System?
The answer is no not if we truly value democracy.
Democracy is not the rule of one party; it is the rule of the people through their freedom to choose.
A one party system eliminates that freedom. It removes the power of citizens to demand better governance through the ballot.
When voters feel their votes no longer count because the result seems predetermined, apathy sets in and that’s where democratic decay begins.
Do Voters Still Have a Voice?
Yes, but it must be reawakened. Nigerian voters hold immense power, yet many underestimate it.
Every great democracy depends on citizens who hold leaders accountable, regardless of party.
The voice of the voter must go beyond election day it must echo in civic action, public discourse, and policy engagement.
What Should the Opposition Do?
Opposition parties in Nigeria particularly in Kaduna State must redefine their strategy before 2027 if they hope to challenge APC’s hold.
Here are the key steps:
Rebuild Credibility, Nigerians no longer vote for slogans; they vote for sincerity and competence.
Unite for a Common Front,
Fragmented opposition only strengthens the dominant party. Unity of purpose is essential.
Engage the Grassroots: Power doesn’t start in Abuja or Kaduna it begins in the villages, markets, and youth spaces.
Offer Clear Alternatives, Criticism without vision is noise.
The opposition must present bold, believable plans for governance.
Use Media Power Wisely,
In an age of digital politics, narrative defines perception. Opposition parties must invest in media, communication, and public engagement.
The Way Forward for Nigeria’s Democracy
Nigeria’s future depends on pluralism, participation, and patriotic politics.
A healthy democracy is one where power can change hands peacefully not one where it is permanently possessed.
We must rebuild a system where every Nigerian feels represented, every idea is valued, and every vote truly counts.
The goal should not be “One Party Nigeria,” but One United Nigeria, where different voices harmonize to build a greater nation.
Conclusion,
One-party dominance is not destiny it is a challenge. It tests whether Nigerians can rise above political comfort zones and demand genuine democracy.
The future belongs not to one party, but to the people who refuse to let their voice fade into silence.
Democracy dies when the people stop speaking.
It lives when we keep questioning, choosing, and believing that Nigeria can do better.
David E. Monday is a Media Consultant, Political Commentator & Public Affairs Analyst
davidemmanuelmonday7@gmail.com
