ABUJA — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Friday underscored his belief in a credible opposition as a cornerstone of democracy, while dismissing claims that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) seeks to establish a one-party state in Nigeria.
Speaking at the APC 4th Elective National Convention at Eagle Square, Abuja, the President addressed party leaders, members, and supporters, emphasizing that despite recent defections from opposition parties—particularly governors—he remains committed to fostering an environment where opposition parties thrive and hold the government accountable.
“Democracy thrives on vibrant and healthy competition. As a statesman and political leader, I believe in a credible opposition—one that can challenge, question, and help refine policies. That is how statecraft improves, and good governance is achieved,” Tinubu said.
He acknowledged the growth of the APC through defections, noting that the party has welcomed a record number of new members, including governors, senators, and representatives, over the past two years. “May you continue to win more converts into the party, as we have done in the last two years,” he said.
The President urged incoming party officers to maintain the party’s expansive structure through transparent management and credible leadership, anchored on a verifiable national membership database.
“The greatest strength of the APC has never been in our size or numbers, but in our unity. Political parties do not fail solely through electoral defeats; they falter when ego overrides ideology, ambition replaces discipline, and individual interests threaten the collective good. We must guard against these tendencies at all costs,” he added.
The convention, themed “Unity in Progress: Consolidating the Renewed Hope Agenda,” serves as a platform to reinforce party cohesion and commitment to national transformation. Tinubu stressed that the APC was founded as a vehicle for building a Nigeria where governance works, institutions function, opportunities abound, security prevails, poverty declines, and every citizen lives with dignity, regardless of tribe, religion, region, or social status.
“Therefore, this Convention must send one clear message to Nigerians and the world: Our party is strong, united, focused, and ready for the future,” the President said. “We do not seek a one-party state. We welcome criticism, but constant attacks by opposition groups on the Electoral Act 2026 are a disservice to the Nigerian people.”
Tinubu defended the recently amended Electoral Act, noting that the 2026 amendments followed rigorous legislative scrutiny, including public hearings, and were passed by the National Assembly, elected by Nigerians under the 1999 Constitution.
“The Act reflects our collective quest as a nation to strengthen our electoral system and consolidate democratic rule. Our commitment is to uphold the rule of law, conduct credible elections, protect electoral integrity, and continue building a stronger, secure, and united nation,” he said.
The APC leader also highlighted that the party’s success is rooted not merely in numbers but in unity and shared purpose. He called on party members to resist tendencies that could undermine the collective good and reminded the convention that political victories should align with the party’s broader vision for national development.
Tinubu’s address comes amid growing political speculation and recent defections, which have fueled debates over Nigeria’s multi-party system and the role of opposition parties in shaping policy. By affirming his support for a credible opposition, the President reiterated that the APC seeks to govern responsibly while respecting democratic norms.
The convention concluded with renewed calls for unity, discipline, and proactive engagement among party members, with the overarching goal of consolidating the APC’s Renewed Hope Agenda and strengthening democracy in Nigeria.
This gathering highlights the party’s resolve to remain a vehicle for national transformation while promoting a political environment where opposition voices contribute meaningfully to policy-making and governance.
