President Bola Tinubu has rejected claims that his administration is pushing Nigeria toward a one-party state. This follows criticism from opposition groups, especially the NNPP, who allege the ruling APC is systematically weakening other parties. In response, Tinubu and APC leaders insist that recent defections to the party reflect growing support for his policies, not political coercion.
High-profile defections from the PDP and Labour Party in states such as Enugu, Jigawa, Ondo, Kebbi, and Kaduna have boosted the APC’s ranks. The party says this is a sign of national alignment with Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope Agenda.”
Meanwhile, some opposition voices, including former Sokoto governor Aminu Tambuwal, have expressed concern over the defections. The APC dismissed these remarks as political bitterness, stating that the opposition’s failure to offer a credible alternative is to blame for the shift.
Public reactions are mixed. Critics fear the APC’s growing dominance may erode Nigeria’s democratic balance. Others argue the defections reflect the fragmented state of the opposition and a vote of confidence in the president’s leadership.
While Tinubu’s message is one of national unity and political inclusion, questions remain about how these developments will shape Nigeria’s democracy heading into future elections.
