Former President Goodluck Jonathan has warned that Nigeria may be heading towards danger if it becomes a one-party state.

He gave this warning during a tribute event in Abuja for late elder statesman and Ijaw leader, Edwin Clark, who passed away in February at the age of 97.

Jonathan said trying to form a one-party government just to serve the interests of a few people would be harmful to Nigeria.

He explained that if the country ever chooses a one-party system, it should be carefully planned by experts, not created through behind-the-scenes political moves.

According to him, getting to a one-party system by force or manipulation could lead the country into serious trouble.

His comments come after some Nigerians raised concerns that the country is becoming a one-party state, especially as many politicians from opposition parties have joined the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

This wave of defections is seen as weakening the main opposition, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Some PDP governors, like Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom and Ademola Adeleke of Osun, are also believed to be backing President Bola Tinubu’s plan to run for a second term.

Jonathan noted that some countries have used a one-party system successfully, but Nigeria’s diverse ethnic and religious background makes it important to be careful and inclusive in any political changes.

He gave the example of Julius Nyerere of Tanzania, who used a one-party system to unite his country during its early independence days, due to similar tribal and religious divisions.

Jonathan ended by saying that while a one-party system isn’t always bad, it must be properly planned and not happen by accident.