President Bola Tinubu has fired back at opposition figures, urging them to take responsibility for their internal crises instead of blaming him for their dwindling political fortunes.
In a strong statement released on Sunday through his spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, President Bola Tinubu addressed criticisms following a wave of defections from opposition parties to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Tinubu emphasized that politicians switching parties is neither new nor unique to Nigeria, citing examples from more developed democracies where political realignments are common.
Responding to claims that democracy is under threat, Tinubu described such accusations as baseless and exaggerated. He stressed that Nigeria’s democratic system remains robust, with freedoms of association and speech firmly protected under his administration.
The President pointed out the contradiction in the opposition’s reactions, questioning why the defection of former Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir el-Rufai, to the Social Democratic Party (SDP) was celebrated, while recent defections to the APC sparked outrage.
The statement, titled “Democracy Strong and Alive in Nigeria, Ignore Alarmists,” addressed concerns raised by opposition figures, human rights activists, and others about the country’s political climate.
According to Tinubu, the shift of support from influential figures like Akwa Ibom Governor Umo Eno, Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, and former PDP vice-presidential candidate Ifeanyi Okowa to the APC has understandably unsettled the opposition.
Tinubu dismissed allegations of authoritarianism and a plot to establish a one-party state, arguing that such claims are mere propaganda driven by the opposition’s frustration. He firmly stated that no action from his administration aims to weaken democracy or silence dissent.
“The opposition cannot blame President Tinubu or the APC for their internal disorganization, lack of discipline, and incompetence,” the statement read. “It is not the President’s responsibility to manage or strengthen opposition parties.”
Highlighting the irony, the President’s team criticized those who previously hailed anti-Tinubu coalitions but now decry the APC’s growing strength.
They reiterated that freedom of association remains a core value of democracy, and individuals joining the APC are doing so voluntarily, based on their belief in Tinubu’s reforms for the nation’s future.
Furthermore, Tinubu reaffirmed his commitment to a vibrant multiparty democracy, reminding critics that his political journey was instrumental in unseating a sitting President through democratic means.
Under President Tinubu’s leadership, the statement concluded, Nigeria’s democracy remains strong, with the multi-party system thriving. Citizens are encouraged to respect one another’s political choices and ignore alarmists attempting to sow fear with baseless narratives.
What’s your take on the wave of political defections? Do you think they strengthen or weaken Nigeria’s democracy? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!
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