Renowned Nigerian constitutional lawyer, Mike Ozekhome, has raised alarm over the country’s political path. He believes Nigeria is gradually shifting away from democracy and heading towards a form of dictatorship.

Speaking on a TV interview, Ozekhome said the country might become a one-party state if citizens and institutions don’t push back against the current political climate.

During his appearance on Channels TV’s Hard Copy, he said Nigeria’s democracy is losing its variety and depth. Political differences are fading, and parties no longer offer unique ideas or values.

Ozekhome warned that in a one-party system, there is no real opposition. The National Assembly and courts could be controlled by one side, leading to a system where everyone blindly agrees with the ruling power.

He also criticized the frequent party-switching by politicians. He said many leaders change parties just to stay in power, not because they believe in any particular political ideas.

To explain his point, he compared political parties to different forms of the same food: “beans, akara, and moi-moi.” Though they look different, they are made from the same thing. That’s how he sees most of Nigeria’s political groups today—no real difference.

Looking back, Ozekhome reminded viewers that the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) once said it would stay in power for 60 years. But the party lost after 16 years. He warned that the current government could also become overconfident, which may lead to authoritarian rule.

He expressed concern over President Bola Tinubu placing his loyal followers in top government positions. If opposition parties stay weak and divided, Ozekhome fears that the 2027 elections could be just a one-sided contest.