Former Military President of Nigeria, Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB), who held power from 1985 to 1993, has once again emphasized the need for Nigeria to adopt a two-party system.
This renewed call comes at a time when President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), face accusations of orchestrating a move towards a one-party system in the country.
Despite the allegations, Babangida sternly warned that Nigerians would not tolerate the establishment of a one-party state.
During an interview on Channel TV’s “Inside Sources with Laolu Akande” on Friday, the former military leader reflected on his experience in a military regime, asserting that Nigerians would resist the imposition of a one-party state. He remarked, “I have been a military man, and I know dictatorship cannot survive in a civil society.”
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) currently recognizes and operates with 19 political parties in Nigeria. However, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, the 2023 presidential candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), has raised concerns about the APC’s alleged intentions to transform Nigeria into a one-party state. The APC, in response, denies these allegations.
Advocating for a two-party system, Babangida emphasized that it would not only save Nigeria considerable funds but also alleviate the challenges associated with a multi-party state. He proposed the inclusion of independent candidates alongside the two dominant parties, stating, “One can contest as an independent candidate if the person is strong enough to garner supporters.” The suggestion aims to provide a more inclusive political landscape while maintaining the benefits of a streamlined two-party structure.
