A critical analysis suggests the diminishing relevance of Nigerian opposition parties stems from internal weaknesses, frequent defections, and an absence of ideological depth, rather than merely the ruling APC’s strategies
Nigeria Opposition Collapse is increasingly evident, and while the national discourse often attributes the growing dominance of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to intimidation and political maneuvering, a deeper analysis reveals a more complex truth: Nigeria’s opposition parties are largely collapsing under the weight of their own contradictions.
Also read: Wike says PDP will survive as stakeholders rally behind opposition revival
At the peak of Nigeria’s 2023 general elections, 18 political parties were registered. However, by the end of the presidential contest, only a handful retained political relevance. Even these have since begun to disintegrate internally, plagued by infighting, rampant defections, and a discernible lack of direction.
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), once a formidable force that governed the country for 16 years, has been reduced to a shadow of its former self.
Similarly, the Labour Party’s meteoric rise and equally swift decline exposed its shaky foundations, suggesting a party driven more by “momentary euphoria than by deep ideological roots.”
The weakening of opposition parties cannot be entirely blamed on the ruling party. No ruling party globally aims to lose power; they inherently seek to consolidate their position.
Opposition parties are expected to “hold the line — to organise, strategise and inspire public trust.” If they fail in this fundamental role, then their capacity to lead is called into question.
One of the most serious threats to Nigeria’s democracy is the pervasive ease with which politicians switch parties.
The political landscape is replete with career politicians—from Atiku Abubakar to Peter Obi, and from Nasir El-Rufai to Rabiu Kwankwaso—who appear more loyal to personal ambitions than to any defined set of beliefs.
This culture of “anywhere-belle-face” politics weakens democratic institutions and profoundly confuses voters.
In stark contrast, stable democracies typically feature politicians who remain loyal to their parties, even through adversity, thereby building stronger institutions and fostering a loyal support base.
Nigerian politicians, conversely, treat political parties as mere “commercial vehicles,” hopping on and off at their convenience.
Some opposition figures claim their members are being hounded, with institutions like the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) allegedly used to silence dissent.
While such assertions may hold some truth, a crucial question arises: “Where is the resistance? Where is the integrity?”
If a political party can be easily dismantled by threats or legal challenges, it indicates an inherent lack of a solid foundation.
True political opposition demands resilience and principle, not timidity or compromised integrity.
Nigeria faces the perilous risk of not just APC dominance, but the emergence of a *de facto* one-party state.
This is dangerous because democracy inherently requires robust competition to function effectively.
Without a strong opposition, power goes unchecked, corruption can fester, and governance risks becoming a matter of loyalty over performance.
This alarming scenario is feared due to the “timidity and atomistic tendencies” of the current opposition parties.
While a one-party dispensation might offer perceived benefits such as political stability or efficient decision-making, Nigeria’s unique political history and multicultural heritage do not recommend it.
Given the country’s specific tendencies, such a system could be abused and fail to deliver the benefits seen in countries that prioritise unity over multi-party competition.
A multi-party democracy, with its inherent checks and balances, remains Nigeria’s necessary path.
Ultimately, it is time for Nigerians to critically assess the role of the opposition. As the analysis strongly states, “If the APC has become dominant, it is because the opposition has failed to rise to the challenge. The opposition needs to organise, build structures, communicate a vision and offer real leadership. Doing otherwise and expecting patronage is taking the system for granted.”
While the ruling party must also be held accountable for its actions and avoid strong-arm tactics, blaming it for the self-inflicted wounds of the opposition is deemed “lazy but dangerous.”
Democracy thrives not only when governments are scrutinised but also when challengers are strong, principled, and persistent.
Nigeria’s political elites, across all divides, owe the nation better, capable of rising to the global standards demonstrated by its brilliant minds in international organisations.
Also read: Saraki vows PDP will emerge as formidable opposition by 2027
Until Nigeria’s political culture matures beyond the blame game and embraces genuine accountability, the Nigeria Opposition Collapse will continue to undermine the very foundation of its democracy.
