Falana, Gani Adams Warn of One-Party Threat Ahead of 2027 Elections

Concerns over the future of Nigeria’s democracy deepened on Thursday as prominent voices, including human rights lawyer Femi Falana and the Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Gani Adams, warned that continued judicial interference in political party affairs could undermine electoral competition ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The warnings were delivered at the fifth Comrade Yinka Odumakin Memorial Lecture held in Lagos, a gathering of labour leaders, civil society actors and pro-democracy advocates. The event also featured personalities such as Joe Ajaero, Omoyele Sowore and Olumide Fusika, reflecting growing unease within activist circles about the direction of Nigeria’s political system.

Falana, who delivered the keynote lecture, argued that conflicting court rulings and legal battles within parties were increasingly being used to destabilise opposition platforms. He linked his concerns to the recent decision by Independent National Electoral Commission to withdraw recognition from factions within the African Democratic Congress, citing ongoing litigation.

According to him, such developments, if unchecked, could create a scenario where voters are left with limited or no real choices. He warned that democracy thrives on competition and credible alternatives, noting that the absence of these could erode public trust and fuel political instability.

Falana also called on civil society organisations and labour unions to move beyond rhetoric and actively organise to safeguard democratic institutions, cautioning that disorganised resistance could worsen tensions.

Adams, speaking in a similar vein, said Nigeria risks sliding into a one-party system if institutional safeguards are weakened. Drawing parallels with Nigeria’s military era, he urged citizens to resist political complacency and speak out against perceived injustice, regardless of ethnic or partisan affiliations.

The memorial lecture, organised by the Oluyinka Odumakin Foundation, also revisited broader issues of governance and restructuring, themes closely associated with the late activist.

Analysts say the concerns raised highlight ongoing tensions within Nigeria’s political landscape, particularly as preparations gradually begin for the 2027 elections.

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