Former presidential candidate, Gbenga Hashim, has said pro-democracy groups across Nigeria will resist any attempt to impose a one-party system.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Hashim made the remark following a meeting with Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Femi Falana, noting that the engagement was part of ongoing consultations with key stakeholders to protect Nigeria’s multi-party democracy.
“We resolved to sustain the multi-party structure of Nigeria’s democracy and resist one-party rule,” he said.
Hashim described Falana as a long-time associate, stating that their relationship spans over four decades and is rooted in activism, resistance, and a shared commitment to justice.
He recalled their joint participation in the anti-apartheid movement through the Nigeria–ANC Friendship and Cultural Association, including a protest on January 7, 1988, during the visit of former British Prime Minister, Margaret Thatcher.
According to him, he led a group of students who defied security restrictions to stage a protest at the airport tarmac, an action that led to the arrest of five activists.
He paid tribute to those involved, noting that only two are still alive, while Olaitan Oyerinde, Chris Ayaeze, and Rotimi Ewebiyi have since passed on.
Hashim also recounted his involvement in legal actions against military rule, including a 1988 suit challenging the Structural Adjustment Programme under the regime of Ibrahim Babangida, with Falana serving as his pro bono counsel.
He further referenced his detention in 1989 during a constitutional case against the Attorney General of the Federation, handled by a legal team led by Alao Aka-Bashorun.
The former presidential candidate added that Falana played a key role in his emergence as National Administrative Secretary of the Committee for the Defence of Human Rights, where he worked under the late Beko Ransome-Kuti.
Hashim stressed that their long-standing alliance remains committed to defending democratic values, civil liberties, and political plurality in Nigeria.
He added that the stance reflects growing concerns among pro-democracy advocates about the country’s political direction, noting his readiness to work with like-minded stakeholders to safeguard democracy.
