The Kwankwasiyya Movement has expressed concern over what it described as the growing dominance of the All Progressives Congress (APC), stating that the recent amendment to the Electoral Act illustrates the risks associated with one-party control in Nigeria’s democratic system.
In a statement signed by its spokesperson, Habibu Sale Mohammed, the movement cited the rapid passage of the amended Electoral Act by the National Assembly and the subsequent presidential assent as developments that raise questions about the balance of power within the political system. It noted that the process occurred despite public protests and objections from civil society organisations and other stakeholders.
According to the statement, the APC currently exercises significant influence across both the executive and legislative arms of government. The movement attributed this influence partly to defections by elected officials who were originally elected on the platforms of other political parties but later joined the ruling party.
The movement stated that such defections raise political and constitutional issues, particularly when they occur without reference to ideological alignment or consultation with constituents. It added that electoral mandates are conferred by voters through political parties and should not be treated as the personal property of officeholders.
The Kwankwasiyya Movement further noted that Nigeria’s democratic structure is premised on checks and balances, with an effective opposition and an independent legislature serving as safeguards against excessive concentration of power. It argued that frequent defections weaken opposition parties, reduce legislative oversight, and limit scrutiny of executive actions.
Referring specifically to the Electoral Act amendment, the group said the outcome of the process has contributed to concerns about accountability, given that calls for additional safeguards and transparency measures were not reflected in the final decision.
The movement cautioned that democratic decline often occurs gradually, through repeated actions that centralise authority and weaken institutional resistance. It urged elected officials to prioritise accountability to citizens and called on Nigerians to remain engaged and vigilant in supporting democratic institutions, while maintaining peaceful civic conduct.
