National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, has said there would be nothing wrong if Nigeria were to evolve into a one-party state—so long as it reflects the will of the people.
Speaking to journalists at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Friday, Ganduje made the remark after leading three senators from Kebbi State—Adamu Aliero (Kebbi Central), Yahaya Abdullahi (Kebbi North), and Garba Maidoki (Kebbi South)—to a meeting with President Bola Tinubu, where they formally announced their defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC.
“We are not saying we are working for a one-party system, but if that is the wish of Nigerians, we have no objection,” Ganduje stated.
The meeting was also attended by Kebbi State Governor, Dr. Nasir Idris; Sokoto State Governor, Ahmad Aliyu; and the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning.
Ganduje emphasized that the APC has the structure and flexibility to integrate new members smoothly, citing its internal mechanisms and political experience.
He described the lawmakers’ defection as a strategic victory for the party, following weeks of discreet negotiations and consultations in Kebbi State.
According to him, President Tinubu has endorsed the senators’ move, signaling the party’s readiness to absorb the defectors.
“By Tuesday, you will see what will happen in the Red Chambers,” he said, hinting at a formal announcement in the Senate.
Addressing concerns about the growing dominance of the APC, Ganduje insisted the party’s success is not a sign of authoritarianism, but rather a reflection of its performance and appeal.
He also suggested that a one-party state, if voluntarily accepted by the electorate, should not be viewed negatively.
“Leaders worried about a one-party state have no need to fear.
It is not by force; it is by negotiation and positive governance,” he added, citing China as a successful example of a one-party system.
He also criticized Nigeria’s multi-party landscape, remarking, “Too many cooks spoil the soup; too many political parties spoil governance.”