President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has pushed back against claims that his administration is edging Nigeria towards a one-party system, asserting that political alignment is a personal choice.
Speaking during the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Summit at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, Tinubu stated, “It is only one party that is ruling.”
Addressing defections from other parties to the APC, he remarked, “For those still contemplating bale out of their ship, the country is yours, hold on to it.
“For those talking about one party system—it is one party ruling and driving the aspiration of Nigeria.
“You don’t blame a people balling out of a shrinking ship when they have no life jackets.”
The president highlighted the strength and growth of the ruling party, saying, “I am glad of what we have and I am expecting more. That is the game. We are in a constitutional democracy.”
He maintained that nobody should be forced to stay where they no longer feel aligned, and assured that the APC remains open to welcoming new members: “They think this political party is a failure, but with your perseverance, we never gave up. We are the Progressives. We will soldier on. Continue to work hard… I listen to you, not them.”
Tinubu also encouraged party loyalists to remain committed even if they have yet to receive appointments, saying, “We have an opportunity to make Africa great, but I urge you to stay the course.
“To those I cannot offer political positions, be patient, you will be happy to belong to this party.”