ENUGU, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)- Former presidential candidate, Gbenga Hashim, has declared that pro-democracy forces across Nigeria will resist any attempt to impose a one-party system, warning that the country’s democratic structure must be preserved.
Hashim made the declaration after a strategic meeting with Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Femi Falana, as part of ongoing consultations with key stakeholders on safeguarding Nigeria’s multi-party democracy.
“We resolved to sustain the multi-party structure of Nigeria’s democracy and resist one-party rule,” Hashim said.
He described Falana as a long-time ally, noting that their relationship spans more than four decades and is rooted in shared activism and advocacy for justice and democratic governance.
Hashim recalled their joint involvement in the anti-apartheid struggle under the Nigeria-ANC Friendship and Cultural Association, including a protest in January 1988 during the visit of former British Prime Minister, Margaret Thatcher, which led to the arrest of several activists.
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He also pointed to past legal battles against military rule, including a suit challenging the Structural Adjustment Programme under the administration of former military president, Ibrahim Babangida, where Falana served as his counsel.
According to Hashim, their long-standing alliance has remained focused on defending civil liberties, promoting democratic values, and ensuring political plurality in Nigeria.
He noted that the latest engagement reflects growing concern among pro-democracy advocates over the direction of the country’s political system, amid fears of shrinking political space.
Hashim reaffirmed his commitment to working with like-minded stakeholders to protect Nigeria’s democratic institutions, stressing that the survival of a multi-party system is critical to inclusive governance and national development.
The meeting is part of wider consultations expected to continue in the coming weeks as political actors and civil society groups position ahead of the 2027 general elections.