Former presidential candidate Gbenga Hashim has declared that pro-democracy groups across Nigeria are prepared to resist any attempt to impose a one-party system, amid growing concerns over the country’s political direction.
Hashim made this known in a statement issued on Wednesday following a strategic meeting with prominent human rights lawyer Femi Falana. He said the engagement formed part of ongoing consultations with key stakeholders aimed at preserving Nigeria’s multi-party democratic structure.
According to him, the discussions centred on safeguarding democratic values, strengthening political plurality, and ensuring that no group or authority undermines the diversity of Nigeria’s political system.
“We resolved to sustain the multi-party structure of Nigeria’s democracy and resist one-party rule,” Hashim said, emphasising that any attempt to concentrate political power in a single party would be firmly opposed by civil society actors and pro-democracy advocates.
He noted that his alliance with Falana spans over four decades, describing it as one rooted in activism, resistance, and a shared commitment to justice and democratic ideals. Hashim explained that their relationship dates back to the struggle against authoritarian rule and social injustice in Nigeria.
Recounting their history, Hashim highlighted their involvement in the anti-apartheid movement through the Nigeria–ANC Friendship and Cultural Association, where they worked alongside other activists to oppose racial segregation and promote global justice.
He specifically recalled a protest held on January 7, 1988, during the visit of former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher to Nigeria. According to him, the demonstration took place at the airport tarmac despite tight security restrictions.
Hashim said he led a group of students who defied official orders to stage the protest, an action that resulted in the arrest of five activists. He described the incident as a defining moment in their collective struggle for justice and democratic freedoms.
Paying tribute to those who participated in the protest, Hashim noted that only two of the five activists involved are still alive. He identified the late Olaitan Oyerinde, Chris Ayaeze, and Rotimi Ewebiyi as among those who have since passed away, describing them as patriots who contributed significantly to the fight for democracy.
The former presidential candidate also recalled his involvement in legal actions against military rule in Nigeria, including a 1988 court case challenging the Structural Adjustment Programme introduced under the administration of former military president Ibrahim Babangida.
He noted that Falana served as his pro bono counsel in that case, underscoring their long-standing collaboration in legal and political activism.
Hashim further referenced his detention in 1989 during another legal battle involving a constitutional case against the Attorney General of the Federation. He said the matter was handled by a legal team led by the late Alao Aka-Bashorun, a prominent figure in Nigeria’s human rights movement.
According to Hashim, these experiences shaped his political ideology and reinforced his commitment to democratic governance, civil liberties, and the rule of law.
He also highlighted Falana’s role in his emergence as National Administrative Secretary of the Committee for the Defence of Human Rights, where he worked closely with the late Beko Ransome-Kuti. He described that period as critical in strengthening grassroots advocacy and mobilising citizens against military dictatorship.
Hashim stressed that the values they fought for during the military era remain relevant today, particularly as concerns mount over the direction of Nigeria’s democracy.
He warned that attempts to weaken opposition parties or centralise political power could undermine democratic institutions and erode public confidence in governance.
According to him, the preservation of a multi-party system is essential for accountability, inclusiveness, and the protection of citizens’ rights. He added that democracy thrives when multiple voices are allowed to compete, debate, and contribute to national development.
Hashim also expressed readiness to collaborate with like-minded individuals and organisations to defend Nigeria’s democratic space. He said ongoing consultations with stakeholders would continue as part of efforts to build a broad coalition committed to safeguarding political plurality.
Observers say his comments reflect growing anxiety among sections of the political class and civil society over perceived threats to Nigeria’s democratic framework, particularly as the country gradually moves towards another election cycle.
While no specific policy or action indicating a shift to a one-party system has been officially announced, analysts note that concerns about political dominance and weakening opposition structures have continued to feature in public discourse.
Hashim’s statement adds to the voices calling for vigilance and active participation in protecting democratic institutions. He maintained that Nigerians must remain committed to the principles of fairness, justice, and political inclusion.
As consultations among stakeholders continue, pro-democracy advocates say they will remain alert to any developments that could undermine the country’s multi-party system, insisting that the gains of decades of democratic struggle must not be reversed.
