REVIEWSNETWORK@AIT.NG | DEMOCRACY TODAY | CURRENT POLITICS IN NIGERIA

ReviewsNetwork at this time focuses on a recent episode of “Democracy Today” with the caption “CURRENT POLITICS IN NIGERIA”

If you are yet to see the video, watch it here.

Meanwhile, the video is a current affairs program called Democracy Today on Africa Independent Television (AIT). It discusses Nigeria's current political landscape, comparing it to a European football season, with political defections, strategy shifts, and party realignments. The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has gained several key figures from opposition parties, including the People's Democratic Party (PDP), which is struggling with internal disputes.

This episode of the program highlights President Bola Tinubu's administration seeming to have received mixed reviews. While APC leaders praise his economic reforms, critics argue that policies like fuel subsidy removal and naira floating have worsened poverty and inflation. The opposition, meanwhile, is fragmented, with PDP facing leadership disputes ahead of its National Executive Committee meeting on May 27, 2025.

Another major highlight is the alleged formation of a shadow cabinet by opposition figure Pat Utomi, aiming to provide alternative governance ideas. The Nigerian government, however, views this as unconstitutional, with the DSS filing a lawsuit against Utomi, arguing that it could incite political unrest.

The discussion also touches on concerns about Nigeria's democracy, the impact of political defections, and the need for stronger opposition. Analysts debate whether the APC's dominance could lead to a one-party state, and whether opposition parties are failing to provide viable alternatives.

LET’S TAKE THE DELIBRATIONS FURTHER AT THIS TIME

Nigeria's political landscape in May 2025 is marked by intense party defections, strategic realignments, and growing concerns about democratic stability. The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has seen a surge in new members from opposition parties, particularly the People's Democratic Party (PDP), which is struggling with internal conflicts. Some analysts fear that this trend could lead to a one-party state, weakening democratic competition.

As such, the broader political climate reflects concerns about governance, economic hardship, and the future of Nigeria's democracy.

Party defections in Nigeria have significant implications for governance, democracy, and political stability. Here are some key effects:

1.   Weakening of Opposition – Mass defections to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) have left opposition parties, particularly the People's Democratic Party (PDP), struggling to maintain a credible challenge. A weak opposition reduces checks and balances, making governance less accountable.

2.   Erosion of Ideology – Politicians switching parties frequently suggests that Nigerian politics is driven more by personal ambition than ideological commitment. This undermines policy-driven governance and turns elections into contests of influence rather than ideas.

3.   Threat to Democratic Stability – Some analysts fear that continued defections could lead to a one-party state, where political competition is stifled and governance becomes less responsive to citizens.

4.   Political Opportunism – Many defections are motivated by access to power and resources rather than genuine policy alignment. Some politicians defect to avoid prosecution, as joining the ruling party often provides a shield against corruption investigations1.

5.   Public Distrust in Governance – When politicians switch allegiances for personal gain, voters may lose faith in the democratic process, seeing it as a game of self-interest rather than public service.

6.   Instability in Policy Implementation – Frequent shifts in political loyalty can disrupt governance, as defectors may push for changes that serve their new party rather than long-term national interests.

Opposition parties play a crucial role in strengthening Nigerian democracy by ensuring accountability, fostering political competition, and representing alternative governance ideas. Here are some key ways they can enhance democratic stability:

1.   Building Strong Internal Structures – Opposition parties must resolve internal conflicts and establish clear leadership to function effectively. A divided opposition weakens their ability to challenge the ruling party.

2.   Developing Clear Ideologies – Many Nigerian parties lack distinct ideological positions. Opposition parties should focus on policy-driven governance rather than political opportunism.

3.   Engaging Citizens Effectively – Mobilizing grassroots support through civic education and public engagement can help opposition parties connect with voters and advocate for their interests.

4.   Holding Government Accountable – A strong opposition ensures checks and balances by scrutinizing government policies, exposing corruption, and proposing alternative solutions.

5.   Forming Strategic Alliances – Coalition-building among opposition parties can create a formidable challenge to the ruling party, preventing the dominance of a single political force.

6.   Leveraging Media and Technology – Using digital platforms and independent media to communicate policies and counter government narratives can help opposition parties shape public discourse.

7.   Encouraging Youth Participation – Engaging young Nigerians in politics can bring fresh perspectives and strengthen democratic participation.

Profound Impact On Political Stability

1.   Inflation and Cost-of-Living Crisis – The removal of fuel subsidies and the liberalization of the foreign exchange market have led to high inflation and a weakened naira, making life harder for ordinary Nigerians. Rising food and fuel prices have fueled public discontent, increasing pressure on the government.

2.   Political Turbulence – Economic hardship has intensified political instability. The Rivers State crisis, where President Tinubu's administration declared a state of emergency, has raised concerns about governance and investor confidence. Opposition parties are using economic struggles to challenge the ruling party.

3.   Public Disillusionment – Many Nigerians feel that promised economic reforms have not delivered expected results. The government's social intervention programs have had minimal impact, leading to skepticism about leadership effectiveness.

4.   Foreign Investment Challenges – Investor confidence has been shaken by currency volatility and governance concerns. The government is trying to stabilize the naira and attract foreign investment, but political uncertainty remains a barrier.

5.   Opposition Strategies – Economic struggles have given opposition figures like Pat Utomi an opportunity to push alternative governance ideas, including the alleged formation of a shadow cabinet. The government, however, views this as unconstitutional and has taken legal action against Utomi.

Overall, Nigeria's economic policies are shaping political narratives, influencing party defections, and testing democratic resilience.

Nigeria has experienced several political movements that have shaped its democratic landscape:

1.   June 12, 1993 Presidential Election – Widely regarded as Nigeria’s freest and fairest election, it was annulled by the military government of General Ibrahim Babangida, leading to nationwide protests and political unrest.

2.   EndSARS Protest (2020) – A youth-led movement against police brutality, particularly targeting the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS). The protests gained international attention and forced government reforms.

3.   Obasanjo’s Alleged Third-Term Agenda – Former President Olusegun Obasanjo was accused of attempting to extend his tenure beyond the constitutional two terms (1999–2007). The move was widely opposed and ultimately failed.

4.   Evolution of Political Parties – Nigeria’s political party system has evolved from colonial-era formations like the Nigerian National Democratic Party (NNDP) to modern parties like the APC and PDP. However, ideological clarity remains a challenge.

5.   Right-Wing Convergence in Nigeria’s Fourth Republic – Recent studies suggest that Nigeria’s major political parties have converged ideologically, focusing more on patronage and power retention rather than distinct economic policies.

These movements reflect Nigeria’s ongoing struggle for democratic stability and governance reforms.

 

But Should Nigeria Be Truly Scared Of A One-Party System?

One-party systems have existed in various countries, with some achieving stability and economic growth under such governance:

1.   China – The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has maintained control since 1949, overseeing rapid economic growth and modernization. While political freedoms are restricted, China has become a global economic powerhouse.

2.   Singapore (Dominant-Party System) – While not strictly a one-party state, the People's Action Party (PAP) has ruled since independence in 1965. Singapore has achieved remarkable economic success, efficient governance, and low corruption levels.

3.   Vietnam – The Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) has governed since 1976, implementing economic reforms that transformed Vietnam into one of the fastest-growing economies in Southeast Asia.

4.   Cuba – Under the Communist Party of Cuba, the country has maintained social programs like universal healthcare and education, though economic challenges persist.

5.   Eritrea – The People's Front for Democracy and Justice (PFDJ) has ruled since independence in 1993, maintaining stability but facing criticism for human rights restrictions.

However, while some one-party states have achieved economic success, they often face criticism for limiting political freedoms and suppressing opposition.

On-Line Comments

The online comments about the Democracy Today episode and its discussion on Nigeria's political landscape are quite diverse. Here are some key reactions:

1.   Concerns About Party Defections – Many viewers express worry that the ruling APC is absorbing opposition figures at an alarming rate, potentially leading to a one-party state. Some argue that defections are driven by political survival rather than ideology.

2.   Mixed Reactions to Tinubu’s Midterm Performance – While APC supporters praise his economic reforms, critics highlight inflation, subsidy removal, and naira instability as major concerns. Some commenters argue that governance should prioritize citizens' welfare over political maneuvering.

3.   Debate Over Pat Utomi’s Shadow Cabinet – Some Nigerians see Utomi’s initiative as a necessary opposition strategy, while others believe it lacks constitutional backing. The DSS lawsuit against Utomi has sparked discussions on whether the government is suppressing dissent.

4.   Frustration with PDP’s Internal Conflicts – Many commenters criticize the PDP’s leadership disputes, arguing that the party is failing to provide a strong opposition. Some suggest that PDP’s inability to resolve internal issues is contributing to defections.

5.   Concerns About Democratic Stability – Some viewers fear that Nigeria’s democracy is weakening, citing restrictions on protests, media control, and political suppression. Others argue that democracy remains intact but needs stronger institutions.