Lagos, April 20, 2025 — In a strongly worded “State of the Nation” address delivered at the Citadel Global Community Church in Lagos, Pastor Tunde Bakare warned that Nigeria is veering dangerously close to becoming a one-party state under the administration of President Bola Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Key Concerns Raised by Bakare
1. Erosion of Democratic Institutions
Bakare criticized what he described as a growing concentration of power in the executive arm of government, with the National Assembly reduced to a rubber stamp. He referred to the legislative body as the “48th member” of the president’s cabinet, warning that it no longer serves as an effective check on executive overreach.
2. Institutional Breakdown and Abuse of Power
Citing recent political events such as the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State and the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, Bakare accused the legislature of complicity in the suppression of dissent and the weakening of democratic institutions. He said these developments reflect a broader pattern of authoritarian governance.
3. The Rise of a “Mafia State”
Describing the current state of affairs as “political banditry,” Bakare warned that top-level corruption and state-sanctioned suppression are gradually turning Nigeria into a “mafia state.” He called on Nigerians to recognize the danger and declare a “state of emergency” in the realm of governance, insisting that silence in the face of injustice is complicity.
4. A Plea for Leadership Humility
In a direct message to President Tinubu, Bakare urged humility and introspection, warning the president against “playing God.” He drew from biblical examples to underscore the importance of servant leadership and ethical governance, calling on the administration to prioritize the people over personal or party interests.
Broader Political Context
Bakare’s comments come amid growing concerns over the political direction of the country. Multiple defections from opposition parties to the APC have raised fears that Nigeria is moving toward de facto single-party rule. Critics argue that the ruling party is using state influence to weaken opposition voices and consolidate power.
President Tinubu, for his part, has dismissed these claims, affirming his commitment to multi-party democracy. In recent public remarks, he denied any intention of establishing a one-party state and described ongoing defections as expressions of confidence in his leadership.
Implications
- Democratic Integrity at Risk: Bakare’s warning highlights growing public unease about the state of Nigeria’s democracy and the weakening of institutional safeguards.
- Call for Institutional Reform: His speech calls for the revival of legislative independence and stronger oversight mechanisms to protect Nigeria’s democratic system.
- Demand for Ethical Governance: The appeal for humility and moral leadership reflects rising frustration among citizens over perceived executive arrogance and political impunity.
- Citizen Mobilization: Bakare’s call for citizens to “declare a state of emergency” over governance challenges emphasizes the need for civic engagement and public accountability.
Conclusion
Pastor Tunde Bakare’s address represents one of the most vocal and pointed criticisms of the Tinubu administration to date. Warning of a dangerous drift toward one-party dominance and autocratic governance, he urged Nigerians to resist complacency, hold leaders accountable, and defend the democratic values enshrined in the constitution.
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