Former Governor of Lagos State, Babatunde Fashola, has dismissed claims that Nigeria is heading toward a one-party state, describing such assertions as a "big lie" following the formation of a new political coalition under the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Speaking during an interview on Channels Television, Fashola emphasized that the emergence of the coalition demonstrates Nigeria's democratic freedoms. "It is a manifestation of a right to choose, a freedom of choice, a freedom to associate, and one must respect that, as I do," he stated.
The coalition has attracted prominent political figures including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Senate President David Mark, former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, former Rivers State Governor Chibuike Amaechi, and former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi, among others.
Recent weeks have seen significant political realignments, with Atiku Abubakar notably resigning from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to join the ADC movement. This development comes amid concerns about Nigeria's political landscape following a wave of defections to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
While acknowledging the coalition's importance, Fashola questioned its effectiveness without a clear agenda. "It's not just about gathering ourselves together and saying, 'we want to change Nigeria'. What is the compelling alternative message?" he asked. "Without a manifesto, without a program of action, I can't speak to how persuasive the coalition will be."
The former Lagos governor welcomed the development as potentially beneficial for Nigeria's democracy. "Nigeria perhaps benefits from the reawakening of opposition from what has been a long slumber," Fashola remarked, adding that "the opposition essentially abdicated their responsibility over the last two years."
The ADC coalition represents a significant shift in Nigeria's political landscape ahead of future elections, with observers watching closely how this realignment might challenge the current political status quo.
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