## towards a unique party in Nigeria? An open letter raises concerns
On April 27, 2025, a group of 18 eminent figures of Nigerian civil society published an open letter in which they express their deep concern in the face of the current political situation in Nigeria. These personalities, who include senators, academics and NGO officials, accuse President Bola Tinubu of wanting to establish a single party system, a development which, according to them, threatens the very essence of Nigerian democracy.
This statement follows a series of rallies within the Progressive Congress (APC), the ruling party, which has been observed in recent weeks, in particular with the abandonment of the Popular Democratic Party (PDP) by several opposition figures, including the Governor of the State of Delta. The signatories highlight what they describe as “fear and pressures” exerted by the power to force these individuals to join the majority party.
## The historical and political background
To better understand this dynamic, it is essential to contextualize the current political situation of Nigeria. Since its return to democracy in 1999, the country has crossed several phases of political tension and instability. The ethnic and regional diversity of Nigeria, coupled with accusations of corruption and sometimes authoritarian governance, has often caused a climate of distrust of democratic institutions.
The emergence of the APC in 2013 marked a turning point, allowing opposition parties to unite to challenge the power of the PDP, a dominant political actor for many years. However, similar accusations of coercion and manipulation have regularly resurfaced, questioning the robustness of political pluralism.
### A chain reaction
The concerns expressed by these figures of civil society are not surprising in this context. The letter underlines a “clear scheme” of intimidation policy, where “an invitation from the anti-corruption services” could encourage a governor or a senator to change camps. The idea of an “erosion of pluralism” is insistently relayed, insinuating that the Nigerian political landscape could be reduced to a single path, that driven by the APC and its president.
In his response, the presidency firmly opposes these accusations. A spokesperson rather evokes the reforms undertaken and considers that the rallies are the result of a “conviction” of the leaders of the opposition parties. This point of view invites you to ask: what reforms are really implemented and to what extent are they perceived as positive by the electorate?
### A dynamic of distrust
This situation brings out concerns about the level of confidence that the Nigerian population grants its institutions. The accusations of corruption and blackmail are serious and, if they are founded, could seriously begin the legitimacy of the government. However, it is also crucial to avoid hasty conclusions and to consider the point of view of those who join the APC. Perhaps they feel a certain pressure to engage in a direction which may seem politically more favorable to their personal aspirations or those of their region.
### What avenues for a constructive dialogue?
To advance on the path of reconciliation and strengthen the democratic system, it would be beneficial to open an inclusive dialogue between all parties. This process could involve independent audits of political institutions, a revision of laws supervising the financing of political parties, or the establishment of reinforced transparency mechanisms.
The preservation of political diversity and respect for pluralism are crucial for the democratic future of Nigeria. Collective vigilance is necessary to monitor trends that could harm this diversity and to prevent shift towards a single party system. This dialogue must be fueled by various voices, particularly those of those who are at the heart of this political dynamic, and it must favor listening and mutual understanding.
### Conclusion
Faced with a period of political uncertainty, the open letter of these 18 figures of civil society recalls the importance of a robust democracy and a diversified political system. The reactions of the presidency show that the debate is far from closed. The question remains: how to restore confidence in a system which seems, to some, more and more partitioned? The political future of Nigeria is perhaps based on the capacity of its leaders and its population to fight for vibrant and inclusive pluralism. This challenge, while being complex, could be an opportunity for democratic strengthening and Societal advancement.