OSITA OKECHUKWU ATIKU’S REFUSAL TO STEP ASIDE FUELS ONE-PARTY STATE

OSITA OKECHUKWU ATIKU’S REFUSAL TO STEP ASIDE FUELS ONE PARTY STATE A founding member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Osita Okechukwu, has accused former Vice President Atiku Abubakar of actions that could deepen Nigeria’s drift toward a one party state. In a statement issued on April 2, 2026, Okechukwu criticized Atiku’s insistence that he would not step aside in ongoing opposition realignments, arguing that such a stance undermines unity within opposition ranks and weakens democratic competition. According to him, Atiku’s declaration“I’m not stepping aside” confirms concerns that personal ambition is taking precedence over collective political strategy.

Okechukwu pointed to Atiku’s absence at a major political event in Kano, where the African Democratic Congress (ADC) formally welcomed Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso and the Kwankwasiyya movement, describing it as a missed opportunity to strengthen opposition cohesion. He argued that such actions contribute to fragmentation at a time when the ruling APC continues to consolidate its influence. He further described Atiku’s criticisms of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over alleged moves toward a one party system as contradictory, insisting that the real threat stems from disunity within opposition parties rather than actions of the ruling party. Okechukwu also recalled internal disputes during the 2023 elections, suggesting that similar patterns of disagreement and lack of compromise have continued to weaken opposition effectiveness. He said the opposition’s inability to present a united front reflects “deep-seated anti-democratic tendencies” and a failure to build consensus, adding that leadership struggles and refusal to respect zoning arrangements have worsened internal crises. The APC chieftain maintained that Nigeria’s democracy requires a strong and coordinated opposition, especially ahead of the 2027 general elections. He urged Atiku, whom he described as an elder statesman, to support broader coalition-building efforts.

Okechukwu suggested that a consensus ticket involving key opposition figures could strengthen electoral competition and improve democratic credibility, rather than fueling divisions along regional lines. He concluded that the growing dominance of the APC is not solely due to incumbency advantages but largely driven by the opposition’s internal disarray and inability to act collectively.