One-Party System? Not Our Style! APC’s Osita Okechukwu Sparks Debate On Democracy

Osita Okechukwu, a founding member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and former Director General of the Voice of Nigeria (VON), has stated that the ruling party does not need to transform Nigeria into a one-party state to secure electoral victories.

Speaking to journalists in Abuja on Sunday, Okechukwu emphasized that the APC’s past successes—winning the 2015, 2019, and 2023 general elections—demonstrate its strength in a competitive democratic environment.

He took a swipe at the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), warning that the party is rapidly declining in relevance due to internal discord and what he termed “self-inflicted impunity.”

“The PDP is dangerously sliding from a major to a minor political party,” Okechukwu said.

Reflecting on the formation of the APC in 2013, he recalled that many Nigerians were hopeful that the nation was on the path toward vibrant democratic competition between two strong political parties—a hallmark of mature democracies.

“Some of us envisioned a thriving multiparty system marked by healthy rivalry between two formidable parties,” he noted.

Okechukwu distanced himself from the idea of a political monopoly, insisting, “Sincerely, the APC doesn’t need a one-party system to win elections.”

He underscored the importance of a strong opposition, arguing that a resilient PDP would enhance democratic governance by providing effective checks and balances.

“What true democrats desire is a strong PDP to help deepen our democracy and promote national development—not a weakened coalition,” he asserted.

He also criticized the PDP for allegedly violating the rotational presidency principle, which he described as crucial for fostering national unity and sustaining democratic health.