President Bola Tinubu has rejected suggestions that his administration is working to turn Nigeria into a one-party state, stating that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) remains inclusive and open to members from other political parties.
Speaking during a special joint session of the National Assembly on Thursday to mark Democracy Day, Tinubu urged lawmakers and political opponents to focus on strengthening their internal structures rather than entertaining unfounded fears.
“You are all welcome to the progressive fold. Nobody should close the door,” Tinubu said. “Political parties fearful of members leaving may be better served by examining their internal processes and affairs, rather than fearfully conjuring up demons that do not exist.”
He added pointedly, “I will not say, try your best to put your house in order. I will not help you to do so, either.”
Reflecting on Nigeria’s democratic journey since the return to civilian rule in 1999, the president expressed pride in how far the nation has come. “Democracy has risen from the ashes of military rule to reclaim its rightful place as the only acceptable form of governance for our resilient and beloved people,” he said.
Tinubu paid tribute to the late Chief Moshood Abiola, the presumed winner of the annulled June 12, 1993 presidential election, and commended former President Muhammadu Buhari for officially recognizing Abiola and declaring June 12 as Democracy Day.
“Let me pay tribute to my predecessor… for reaching back into history to rectify a national misdeed,” Tinubu said, as he also honored the memories of pro-democracy heroes including Kudirat Abiola and Pa Alfred Rewane, both of whom were assassinated during the military era.
“We remember the many civil rights activists, journalists, and politicians who were imprisoned, exiled, tossed aside, and beaten,” he said.
Calling for continued synergy between the executive and legislative arms of government, Tinubu emphasized that democracy thrives on collaboration and mutual respect. “While we may not always agree, we must forge a way to work together—because this is what democracy demands of us,” he concluded.
What you should know
President Tinubu has firmly denied any agenda to establish a one-party state, urging political rivals to strengthen their internal democracy instead.
He used the Democracy Day address to reflect on Nigeria’s democratic progress, pay homage to June 12 heroes, and stress the importance of unity and cooperation between government arms in upholding the nation’s democratic values.
