The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, has expressed support for the possibility of Nigeria adopting a one-party system, as long as it reflects the collective will of the people.
Ganduje made this statement on Friday after leading three senators from Kebbi State, who recently defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC, to meet with President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
The lawmakers—Adamu Aliero (Kebbi Central), Yahaya Abdullahi (Kebbi North), and Garba Maidoki (Kebbi South)—officially declared their defection to the ruling party during the visit.
Also present were Kebbi State Governor Dr. Nasir Idris, Sokoto State Governor Ahmad Aliyu, and the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning.
Ganduje clarified that while the APC is not actively advocating for a one-party system, the party would be open to the idea if it reflects the desires of the Nigerian people.
“We are not pushing for a one-party system, but if that is what the people of Nigeria want, we will not oppose it,” he said.
He further emphasized that the APC has established structures to facilitate the smooth integration of defectors, noting that the party’s constitution and political experience would guide the process of welcoming new members.
The defection of the three senators, Ganduje explained, followed weeks of discreet discussions among key stakeholders in Kebbi State. He revealed that President Tinubu had endorsed the senators’ decision to join the APC, indicating the party’s readiness to broaden its membership base.
Ganduje hinted that the senators’ formal defection would be announced in the Senate next week, stating, “By Tuesday, you will see what will happen in the Red Chambers.”
He dismissed concerns that defections could lead to a one-party state, insisting that the APC’s expanding popularity is driven by its achievements, not by coercion.
“A one-party state is not created by force; it is the result of successful negotiations and the appeal of good governance,” he said.
Drawing a parallel with China, he noted, “China is one of the most powerful countries in the world and operates a one-party system. So, if Nigerians choose that path through their support, we see nothing wrong with it.”
Ganduje also criticized Nigeria’s multiparty system, arguing that an overabundance of political parties could hinder effective governance.
“Just as too many cooks spoil the broth, too many political parties can spoil governance,” he remarked.
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