By our reporter
Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma, has sparked national debate following his bold declaration that the All Progressives Congress, APC, is the only functional and credible political party remaining in Nigeria.
Speaking at a political gathering in Owerri over the weekend, the Governor asserted that opposition parties have become practically non-existent, particularly in his home state of Imo. According to Uzodimma, recent political developments and electoral performances have proven that the APC remains the only cohesive and effective political organization in the country.
The truth is that in Imo State today, there is only one political party and that is the APC, Uzodimma said to a cheering crowd. The opposition is no longer visible. They have no direction, no structure, and no message for the people.
Governor Uzodimma, who secured a second term in office in the November 2023 governorship election, claimed that the APC’s widespread appeal and performance at both state and federal levels have rendered other parties irrelevant.
He further suggested that what remains of the opposition has become fragmented and weakened by internal crises and leadership struggles.
Nigeria today has only two political categories — APC and others, Uzodimma added. And if you look closely, even the others are beginning to align with us because they know we are the party with a national vision and the capacity to deliver.
The Governor’s comments come amid growing concerns over the strength of Nigeria’s multiparty democracy. While the APC controls the presidency and holds majorities in both chambers of the National Assembly, critics argue that reducing the political landscape to a one-party system could weaken democratic checks and balances.
Some political analysts have also warned that Uzodimma’s statement, while reflecting political confidence, may further alienate opposition voices and diminish the spirit of political plurality that democracy thrives on.
However, supporters of the Governor say his remarks reflect political reality rather than mere rhetoric. They point to the APC’s continued dominance in state and national elections as evidence of the party’s unrivaled influence.
As Nigeria continues to grapple with economic challenges, insecurity, and governance issues, Uzodimma’s comments have reignited discussions around political accountability, party performance, and the future of opposition politics in Africa’s most populous democracy.
