President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has dismissed allegations that his administration is steering Nigeria toward a one-party system, calling such claims baseless and politically motivated. Speaking at a joint session of the National Assembly to commemorate Democracy Day on June 12, the President firmly rejected what he described as a “terrible rumour” that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) is working to eliminate political opposition in Nigeria.
Tinubu reflected on his political journey and long-standing advocacy for democratic governance, emphasizing that a one-party state is neither desirable nor acceptable for Nigeria.
“To those who ring the alarm that the APC is intent on a one-party state, I offer you a most personal promise. While your alarm may be born out of panic, it is unfounded,” Tinubu said. “At no time past, present, or future will I ever support or advocate a one-party system. It is not in the best interest of Nigeria.”
He referenced his role in resisting the dominance of the then-ruling party in 2003, noting that he stood firm as the last remaining progressive governor in his region despite immense political pressure.
“In 2003, when the ruling party attempted to wipe out the opposition, I stood alone. Many of my allies had been induced into defeat, yet the dream of a one-party Nigeria did not come to pass then, and it won’t happen now,” he stated.
The President also used the occasion to formally welcome new members into the APC, including Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State and Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State, along with their supporters and stakeholders.
He reiterated that the APC remains open to defectors from other parties, but urged opposition parties to focus on resolving their internal issues rather than casting blame.
“Political parties fearful of members leaving should look inward. Don’t blame others for your crisis fix your house,” Tinubu said. “I will not interfere. Frankly, it is a pleasure to witness the opposition in such disarray.”
While rejecting the idea of a one-party state, Tinubu stressed the importance of preserving political diversity and fostering healthy competition for the benefit of the country.
“We must embrace the diversity of our political landscape just as we do our people. Democracy demands competition not its elimination,” he noted. “True progress lies in working together across political divides for the economic and social development of our great nation.”
President Tinubu’s remarks come amid increasing tensions between the APC and opposition parties, particularly the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), which has accused the ruling party of undermining Nigeria’s democratic foundations.
