President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his commitment to multi-party democracy, stating unequivocally that Nigeria will never become a one-party state under his administration.
Speaking during a joint session of the National Assembly to commemorate Democracy Day, the president addressed widespread concerns over the rising number of political defections to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
In a characteristically candid remark, Tinubu dismissed as “a terrible rumour” the suggestion that his government is plotting to wipe out political opposition. Instead, he described the disorganisation within opposition parties as an internal matter — and, in a jab at his critics, added that it was “a pleasure to witness you in such disarray.”
“At no time in the past, nor any instance in the present, and at no future juncture shall I view the notion of a one-party state as good for Nigeria,” Tinubu said, adding, “Nigeria will not become such a state now.”
Referencing his own political history, Tinubu recounted how, in 2003, he stood as the last remaining progressive governor in his region when the then ruling party attempted to dominate all spheres of governance.
“Even with all their numbers and false grandeur, they boasted of ruling, not governing, Nigeria for the next half century or more. Where are they now?”
He insisted that such attempts at political hegemony ultimately failed, and reaffirmed that Nigeria’s democratic space must remain open, competitive, and vibrant.
Nonetheless, Tinubu made it clear that while he does not support political domination, he will not stand in the way of defectors from opposition parties choosing to join the APC.
“We would be guilty of political malpractice if we closed the door on those from other parties who now seek to join the APC.”
The president also used the occasion to welcome Governors Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State and Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State into the APC, along with other members of the National Assembly who have recently defected.
“Political parties fearful of members leaving may be better served by examining their internal processes and affairs rather than fearfully conjuring up demons that do not exist. For me, I would say try your best to put your house in order. I will not help you do so. It is, indeed, a pleasure to witness you in such disarray.”
While defending the integrity of Nigeria’s political structure, Tinubu emphasised that democracy thrives not by eliminating competition but by encouraging healthy engagement across party lines.
“Our efforts must never be to eliminate political competition but to make that competition salutary to the national well-being by working across the political aisle whenever possible.”
The president’s remarks come amid rising political tensions and speculation that the wave of defections could undermine Nigeria’s multi-party system. By taking a firm stand against any suggestion of authoritarian intent, Tinubu sought to reassure both lawmakers and the public that the APC’s growing strength would not translate into democratic overreach.
Ozioma Samuel-Ugwuezi
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