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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu took a swipe at opposition parties during his address to the National Assembly on Democracy Day, June 12, remarking that it was a “pleasure” to see the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Labour Party (LP) in disarray.
Speaking at the joint sitting of the National Assembly, Tinubu also welcomed a wave of defectors from the opposition into the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), including members from Delta and Akwa Ibom States, led by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and Pastor Umo Eno.
While emphasizing that Nigeria is not headed toward a one-party system, Tinubu stated that it would be wrong to turn away those who now wish to join the APC.
“A one-party state is not in the offing, nor should it ever be,” Tinubu said. “That said, we would be guilty of political malpractice if we closed the door on those from other parties who now seek to join the APC.”
He went on to challenge opposition parties to focus on internal reforms instead of blaming external forces for their challenges.
“Political parties fearful of members leaving may be better served by examining their internal processes rather than conjuring up imaginary enemies. Put your house in order I will not help you do so. It is, indeed, a pleasure to witness you in such disarray,” he quipped.
Despite the pointed remarks, the President concluded on a note of political inclusivity, stressing the importance of a vibrant multi-party democracy.
“We must welcome and accept the diversity of political parties just as we embrace the diversity of our people. Our goal should not be to eliminate political competition, but to ensure it contributes positively to national progress—by working across party lines where possible.”
