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Governor Seyi Makinde has expressed concern over what he calls a risky move towards a one-party system in Nigeria, cautioning that democracy might lose its real essence if genuine opposition voices are undermined or suppressed.

He announced this during the National Summit of Opposition Political Party Leaders convened in Ibadan, the capital of Oyo state.

Present at the event were former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, former leader of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Rabiu Kwankwaso, former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi, former Governor of Osun State, Olagunsoye Oyinlola, Chairman and Secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), David Mark, and Rauf Aregbesola, along with other opposition political figures and interested parties.

Makinde stated that democracy is not determined by the control of a single political party, but by the presence of genuine options that allow people to make significant decisions.

As he sees it, when opposition parties lose their effectiveness, what is left might still be referred to as democracy in name, but it would no longer operate in reality.

Makinde emphasized that a robust and trustworthy opposition should never be regarded as a danger to any administration, but instead as the essential element that sustains democratic governance by ensuring it remains open, competitive, and responsible.

He cautioned that letting opposition parties diminish, whether by intentional efforts or political inaction, would result in serious repercussions for the nation.

Democracy without opposition is not true democracy,” the governor stated. “It represents a gradual movement toward a single-party system, and Nigeria must avoid such a path.

The governor’s comments arise during intensifying nationwide discussions about party switches, decreasing opposition numbers, and worries that the political arena is increasingly favoring a single leading party.

Makinde also referred to Nigeria’s turbulent political past, bringing to mind the notorious “Operation Wetie” incident from the former Western Region, a time of intense political turmoil that led to the era being called the “Wild Wild West.”

By reflecting on past occurrences, he warned political figures from making the same errors, when intolerance, political desperation, and the suppression of opposing views led to unrest in certain areas of the country.

He remarked clearly that “Operation Wetie began here,” highlighting Ibadan’s historical significance as a hub of political advancement and political turmoil.

Makinde referred to Ibadan as the political hub of the South West and indeed Nigeria, highlighting that the city has consistently played a key role in national political discussions.

He remembered that even as far back as the 1950s, Ibadan was a place for important constitutional talks that influenced Nigeria’s future, noting that such discussions were essential because a nation’s framework must be intentionally created and, when needed, restructured.

The leader rejected any claim that the summit was aimed at President Bola Tinubu or motivated by individual political interests.

He stated that the meeting was not a conspiracy targeting any person, but an assembly focused on the shared goal of Nigerians to maintain a democracy that serves everyone.

This is not focused on an individual or personal goals,” he stated. “It concerns the continuation of a system that enables Nigeria to stay open, competitive, and responsible.

Makinde called on both political leaders and citizens to not take the present situation lightly, emphasizing that this is not the time for division, quietness, or political disengagement.

Instead, he stated, it is an era requiring clear thought, truthful discussions, and accountable measures that transcend partisan concerns.

He stated that Nigeria has made significant progress in its democratic journey and cannot overlook the warning signals, emphasizing that protecting the country’s democratic future is a duty shared by all.

Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc.Syndigate.info).