By Emmanuel Kwada
President Bola Tinubu has expressed his administration’s commitment to a multi-party system, welcoming members of opposition parties to join the All Progressives Congress (APC) while also reveling in the current disarray within the opposition.
Speaking during a joint session of the National Assembly to commemorate Democracy Day, Tinubu emphasized that the APC would not shut its doors to individuals from other parties seeking to join, citing the importance of diversity and political competition.
The President stated, “It’s indeed a pleasure to witness you in such disarray,” amid cheers from APC supporters and federal lawmakers. He advised opposition parties to examine their internal processes rather than fearing defections, saying, “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.”
It’s indeed a pleasure to witness you in such disarray,” amid cheers from APC supporters and federal lawmakers
Tinubu clarified that a one-party state is not imminent, stressing the value of political competition. “A one-party state is not in the offing, nor should it ever be,” he 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.”
We must welcome and accept the diversity and number of political parties just as we welcome and embrace the diversity of our population
The President welcomed new members from Delta and Akwa Ibom states, including Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and Pastor Umo Eno, along with other National Assembly members. “We must welcome and accept the diversity and number of political parties just as we welcome and embrace the diversity of our population,” he added.
Tinubu emphasized the need for healthy political competition, stating, “Our efforts must never be to eliminate political competition but to make that competition salutary to the national well-being by working across the political aisle whenever possible.”
The President’s statement underscores the APC’s openness to new members and its commitment to democratic principles, while also highlighting the current challenges faced by oppositi on parties in Nigeria.
