Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim Warns of One-Party State Trend, Calls on Labour to Safeguard Democracy

Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim visits NLC's Joe Ajaero, warning that Nigeria is drifting toward a one-party state and urging workers to defend democracy.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 27, 2026, 11:23 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from The Guardian Nigeria

Vigilance Against Authoritarianism and a One-Party State

During a high-level visit to the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Joe Ajaero, on Monday, Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim delivered a sharp critique of the current political climate. He warned that Nigeria's democracy is at risk of sliding into a one-party state under the administration of President Bola Tinubu. Hashim argued that the labor movement must resume its historical role as a proactive guardian to prevent any further drift toward authoritarianism, stressing that the legitimacy of the nation's institutions depends on a vibrant, multi-party landscape.

Labour’s Historical Role in Political Transformation

Hashim highlighted that the history of Nigeria’s progress is inextricably linked to the sacrifices of the working class. He reminded labor leaders that the movement was instrumental in the struggle for independence and was a primary force in ending military dictatorship. By reflecting on these milestones, Hashim emphasized that the current democratic era requires the same level of vigilance and commitment from workers to remain viable and representative of the people’s will.

The Intersection of Citizen Welfare and Democratic Value

A central theme of the visit was the assertion that democracy loses its intrinsic value if the welfare of the citizenry is neglected. Hashim urged political leaders to refocus governance on policies that yield tangible benefits for ordinary Nigerians, particularly in the face of mounting economic pressures. He maintained that marginalizing workers not only creates social instability but also erodes the public’s trust in democratic governance, making the country more vulnerable to non-democratic alternatives.