President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has dismissed concerns that the recent wave of high-profile defections into the All Progressives Congress (APC) poses a threat to Nigeria’s multi-party democracy.
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During the APC National Summit in Abuja on Thursday, Tinubu described the defections as a reflection of the people’s democratic choices and political aspirations. He maintained that the growing dominance of the APC is a result of citizens freely aligning with the party’s vision and direction.
While some political observers and opposition figures have expressed fears that the shift could lead to a one-party state, the president argued that the movement away from opposition parties was a natural outcome of a democratic system. He compared the opposition’s current state to one that is steadily losing relevance, suggesting that individuals are moving in line with constitutional freedoms to associate and affiliate politically.
The president welcomed the increasing number of new members joining the ruling party and expressed satisfaction with the support he has received within the APC. This includes a unanimous endorsement from the party’s National Working Committee, the Progressive Governors Forum, and members of the National Assembly, all of whom have adopted him as the sole presidential candidate for the 2027 election.
On the economic front, Tinubu stated that ongoing reforms are beginning to produce positive outcomes. He promised that the country would experience significant industrial growth and development over the next two years.
He also addressed discontent among party loyalists who feel excluded from political appointments, urging them to remain patient as efforts are underway to ensure broader inclusion in the administration.
