Human rights lawyer Femi Falana and the Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Gani Adams, have warned that Nigeria risks sliding into a situation where only one presidential candidate emerges in the 2027 elections if the judiciary continues to interfere in political party affairs.
They spoke at the fifth Comrade Yinka Odumakin Memorial Lecture held in Ikeja, Lagos, where several labour leaders, activists, and public figures gathered to reflect on the state of the nation’s democracy.
In his lecture, Falana expressed concern that conflicting court orders and legal battles are being used to destabilise political parties. According to him, this trend could ultimately weaken opposition platforms and limit electoral choices for Nigerians.
He argued that if the situation continues unchecked, the country might end up with a single candidate in the presidential race—making the electoral process meaningless. He also warned that such developments could trigger unrest if citizens begin to feel excluded from genuine democratic participation.
Falana urged civil society groups, labour unions, and political actors to move beyond complaints and begin to organise in defence of democracy, stressing that uncoordinated resistance could lead to chaos rather than meaningful change.
Echoing similar concerns, Adams said Nigeria appears to be drifting toward a one-party system. He accused those in power of using the judiciary to suppress opposition voices and influence political outcomes.
Drawing parallels with the military era, Adams warned that silence in the face of injustice—especially for those who feel politically aligned with those in power—could have long-term consequences. He urged Nigerians to consistently speak out against actions that threaten democratic values.
Other speakers at the event also weighed in on broader governance issues, including the need for restructuring, concerns about insecurity, and the concentration of power at the federal level. They called for stronger institutions, accountability, and a more balanced political system that reflects the will of the people.
Overall, the discussion highlighted growing concerns about the direction of Nigeria’s democracy and the urgent need for reforms to safeguard its future.
