Why one-party state will never happen in Nigeria — Seyi Makinde

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has stated that a one-party state will never emerge in Nigeria, insisting that the country’s diversity makes such political dominance impossible.

Makinde made the remarks on Saturday at a cultural event in Jimeta, Adamawa State. The gathering, titled ‘Civic reception: Unveiling of Margi national attire’, was organised by the Margi tribe to celebrate their heritage and unveil a national attire for the community.

During his address, Makinde criticised attempts to weaken political plurality in the country.

He stated, “For the Margi nation, people think it is very easy to give honour to one of your own, but prophets are not always appreciated in their own home. This is a unique event today, and I want to congratulate the entire Margi nation.

“From the history being read, Nigeria is made up of several nations, and for those who are trying to push us toward a one-party state, this is why it will not happen.

“I congratulate my brother, Governor Finitri. I was reading through his trajectory in the programme book and saw that he got elected into the House of Assembly as Minority Leader.

“Later, he became Majority Leader. He also became Deputy Speaker and later Speaker. Today, he is the governor. So, we know what he is made of. If he is being given a chance, he will go a mile.”

The event also featured remarks from Taraba State Governor, Agbu Kefas, who recently announced his intention to join the All Progressives Congress (APC) from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

He said the move is motivated by the interests of the people of Taraba, stressing that the cultural gathering was not political.

Kefas noted, “This is an event where all Margi nations come together to look at where they are coming from, where they are, and where they will be going.

“This is not a political gathering. Governor (Ahmadu) Finitri is a true Margi son. He is a unifying factor, and I have enjoyed our neighbourhood and brotherhood.

“The only reason why we have disagreements is because I decided to move to the All Progressives Congress. But I know that at the end of the day, he will reason with me that my decision is in the interest of my people. I wish you all the best.”

Tribune Online reports that Kefas had on Tuesday announced a postponement of his formal defection to the APC, citing the abduction of schoolgirls in Kebbi State as the reason for the delay.