By Joy Yesufu
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has firmly dismissed speculation that his administration is working to establish a one-party state in Nigeria, describing the rumour as unfounded and politically motivated.
Speaking before members of the National Assembly on Wednesday, the President dismissed accusations that the All Progressives Congress (APC) plans to erode Nigeria’s multiparty democracy.
“At this point, I plead your indulgence to put a terrible rumour to rest. To those sounding the alarm that the APC is intent on creating a one-party state, I offer a personal promise: such fears are misplaced. At no time in the past, present, or future have I considered that notion beneficial to Nigeria.” Tinubu said.
President Tinubu recalled his own political history to illustrate his longstanding commitment to political plurality noting that in 2003, during efforts by the then ruling party to eliminate opposition across the country, he remained the sole progressive governor in the Southwest.
“They boasted of ruling Nigeria for 50 years or more. Where are they now? I stood alone when my allies were defeated, and the opposition held all the cards. Yet, they failed to control Nigeria’s destiny and divine providence not human ambition prevented the imposition of one-party rule.”
Hez rejected insinuations that his government was influencing defections from opposition parties, saying the APC had not interfered with party registrations or used coercion to consolidate power.
“I have never attempted to alter any party’s registration with INEC. We cannot blame anyone seeking to abandon a sinking ship even without a life jacket,” Tinubu remarked, in a thinly veiled jab at political opponents.
The President welcomed new entrants into the APC, including Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, Akwa Ibom Governor Umo Eno, and several lawmakers from other parties, insisting that political realignment is natural in any democracy.
“A one-party state is neither imminent nor desirable. However, we would be politically negligent if we shut the door to those who voluntarily choose to join us,” he stated.
Tinubu urged parties experiencing internal instability to reflect on their governance models rather than deflect blame.
“Political parties fearful of losing members may do better by examining their own affairs. Try to put your house in order—I will not help you do so,” he said, drawing laughter from the chambers.
Emphasizing the value of political diversity, Tinubu concluded by advocating for healthy competition and cross-party cooperation.
“We must not eliminate political competition. Instead, let us make it productive by working across the aisle for the good of the nation,” he said.
