Prominent Nigerian constitutional lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Mike Ozekhome, has raised the alarm over Nigeria’s gradual drift toward a one-party state, warning that unchecked political trends could lead to dictatorship. Speaking on Friday, Ozekhome criticized the rampant defection of politicians across party lines, describing it as “bootlicking at its highest level” and a sign of ideological bankruptcy.
Ozekhome likened party-switching to “beans, akara, and moi-moi,” arguing that it erodes meaningful political distinctions. “We are gradually driving, without knowing it, towards a one-party state, and it’s a dangerous move if we are not careful,” he cautioned. “In a one-party state, dictatorship reigns supreme. National Assembly pocketed, judiciary pocketed, and everyone saying ‘yes, yes, yes’. Dictatorship, absolute corruption, which can no longer be checked.”
Citing historical precedent, Ozekhome pointed to the 16-year dominance of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), which collapsed despite claims of a 60-year grip on power. He also expressed concern over President Bola Tinubu’s growing influence across key sectors, warning that a divided opposition could result in Tinubu “running against himself” in the 2027 election.
Urging Nigerians to reject complacency, Ozekhome emphasized the power of the people, stating, “The power is yours; it is not theirs.” He called for vigilance to prevent the erosion of democratic principles and the rise of authoritarianism in Nigeria.
