Don’t Turn Nigeria into a One-Party State, Archbishop Onuoha Warns Tinubu

Methodist Archbishop Dr. Sunday Onuoha has cautioned President Bola Tinubu against allowing Nigeria to drift toward a one-party state, warning that such a move would undermine public trust and threaten the nation’s democratic foundations.

Speaking in Abuja on Wednesday during an interview with Vanguard, the prominent cleric urged the president and his advisers to remain vigilant in upholding Nigeria’s multi-party democracy.

“President Tinubu has long been recognised as a steadfast advocate of democracy. It would be a betrayal of public trust if any of his advisers were to influence him into embracing the dictatorial tendencies of a one-party state,” Archbishop Onuoha said.

He stressed that the survival and growth of Nigeria’s democracy depend on political plurality and robust opposition.

“A multi-party system is both healthy and essential for the survival and growth of our democracy. Leaders must remain committed to democratic principles and avoid any actions that could weaken public confidence in our institutions,” he added.

Onuoha also emphasized the influential role of presidential advisers, urging them to resist any inclination toward consolidating power at the expense of democratic values.

His remarks come amid growing public concern over the weakening of opposition voices and perceived dominance of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) across the political landscape.