The Presidency has dismissed claims that recent defections of opposition politicians to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) were coerced. It emphasized that the moves were voluntary.
In a statement issued on Sunday by Bayo Onanuga, the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, the Presidency rejected accusations of a one-party state. It argued that democracy remains intact, and freedom of association is central to Nigeria’s political system.
“Nigerians joining the APC and supporting President Tinubu are doing so voluntarily. They believe his reforms will benefit the country and future generations,” Onanuga said.
This statement follows the defection of Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, his predecessor Ifeanyi Okowa, Deputy Governor Monday Onyeme, and several local government officials to the APC. This shift further weakens the opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP). Okowa, who was the PDP’s presidential running mate in the last election, is now with the ruling party.
Criticism of Opposition’s Struggles Rejected
The defection comes amid internal crises within the Labour Party and the New Nigerian Peoples Party (NNPP). Observers are now questioning whether these parties can challenge the APC in the 2027 elections.
Some critics have suggested that the ruling party is responsible for the opposition’s struggles, but the Presidency rejected these claims. “The opposition’s poor organization and lack of discipline are not President Tinubu’s responsibility,” Onanuga said.
The statement also criticized those who celebrated the defection of former Kaduna State Governor Mallam Nasir El-Rufai to the Social Democratic Party (SDP). Onanuga argued that they were hypocritical for now decrying the political shifts in Nigeria. He stressed that such shifts are a normal part of democracy.
“The right to freely join any political party is a fundamental democratic principle,” Onanuga added. “When politicians and citizens cannot freely express their views or join the party of their choice, democracy is at risk.”
Onanuga concluded by reaffirming the administration’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s multiparty democracy. He also noted that political defections are common in established democracies worldwide.
He urged all Nigerians to support the administration in preserving the democratic values that have sustained the country since 1999.
