Tinubu Dismisses Claims of Nigeria Moving Towards One-Party System
President Affirms APC’s Dominance While Defending Political Freedom
ABUJA – President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has responded to critics alleging his administration is steering Nigeria toward a one-party system, asserting that political association remains a matter of personal choice.
Speaking at the ongoing All Progressives Congress (APC) National Summit at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, Tinubu stated: “It is only one party that is ruling”, while emphasizing the voluntary nature of political participation.
Defending Political Choices
The President used vivid metaphors to explain his position: “For those still contemplating bailing out of their ship, the country is yours – hold on to it. You don’t blame people for abandoning a shrinking ship when they have no life jackets.”
He further clarified: “We are in a constitutional democracy. Nobody can force anyone to stay where they don’t want to be.” Tinubu added that the APC remains open to welcoming more Nigerians who choose to join the ruling party.
APC’s Commitment to Progress
Addressing party members, the President acknowledged challenges but expressed confidence in the APC’s direction: “They think this political party is a failure, but with your perseverance, we never gave up. We are the Progressives. We will soldier on.”
Tinubu concluded with an inspirational message: “We have an opportunity to make Africa great. To those I cannot offer political positions, be patient – you will be happy to belong to this party.”
Source: Daily Trust