Udenta Predicts Failure of APC’s One-Party State Ambition, Cites Growing Opposition Strength

Former National Secretary of the defunct Alliance for Democracy (AD), Prof. Udenta Udenta, has warned that any attempt by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to entrench a one-party state in Nigeria will ultimately fail. He made the assertion on Tuesday during an interview on Arise Television, expressing confidence that Nigeria’s political diversity would resist such an outcome.

Udenta argued that internal weaknesses within the APC are already becoming evident and will intensify as the party moves toward its primary elections. According to him, the ruling party is likely to emerge from the primaries weakened, with other political parties benefiting from the fallout.

He pointed to developments in Rivers State as an early indicator of deeper structural problems within the APC. Udenta described the situation as a sign of “systemic disorder” within the party’s administrative framework, suggesting that internal divisions are undermining its cohesion and long-term dominance.

Emphasizing Nigeria’s complex social and political makeup, Udenta said the country’s multinational and heterogeneous nature makes it incompatible with a one-party system. He maintained that attempts to impose political uniformity in such a diverse society are bound to encounter resistance and eventually collapse.

Udenta also dismissed the idea of permanent political loyalty, noting that politicians often shift allegiances in response to changing political realities. He argued that this fluidity makes it difficult for any single party to maintain overwhelming dominance for an extended period.

Highlighting the evolving opposition landscape, Udenta referenced the growing relevance of the African Democratic Congress (ADC). He noted that until recently, the party was not widely regarded as a major political force. However, recent movements, particularly in the Southeast and across the country, have significantly strengthened its profile.

According to him, the support base associated with the Obidient movement and Peter Obi has helped reinforce the ADC as a credible platform, further challenging the notion of an emerging one-party state.

Udenta concluded that Nigeria’s political future will continue to be shaped by competition and realignments, rather than domination by a single party, as opposition forces reorganize and gain momentum.