Former Minister of Works and Housing, Babatunde Fashola, has weighed in on the emergence of a new political coalition fronted by several top opposition figures, stating that its rise effectively counters fears of Nigeria slipping into a one-party state.
Speaking on Saturday during an interview with Channels Television, Fashola acknowledged the constitutional right of Nigerians to political association and commended the move as a reflection of democratic engagement. However, he expressed reservations about the ideological direction, clarity, and preparedness of the coalition led by the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
“There are many things to take away from those developments. I think the first is that it puts a lie, a big lie, to the story making the rounds about eight weeks ago that Nigeria was going to become a one-party state because there is an opposition of some quality, whatever that quality may be,” Fashola said.
The former Lagos State governor emphasized that while the formation of the coalition is a good step toward political balance, its true impact will depend on the existence of a coherent agenda and policy framework.
“Gathering ourselves together and saying we want to change Nigeria is all very well and good. But what is the compelling alternative message? Without a manifesto, without a programme of action, I can’t speak to how persuasive the coalition will be. There’s still a distance to run,” he added.
Fashola didn’t stop at critiquing the new coalition; he also delivered sharp criticism of Nigeria’s opposition parties in general. According to him, they had essentially gone into a “long slumber,” failing to provide checks and balances or engage constructively with governance over the past two years.
“I respect the right to associate, and Nigeria perhaps benefits from the reawakening of opposition, from what has been a long slumber, if you ask me. The opposition essentially abdicated its responsibility over the last two years,” he said.
Fashola concluded by encouraging the coalition to move beyond slogans and political gatherings, and instead present detailed, actionable plans that resonate with citizens, adding that only then can they offer a credible alternative to the current leadership.