By Emmanuel Kwada
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has sparked controversy with his bold declaration that there is “nothing wrong with a one-party system,” urging the All Progressives Congress (APC) to consolidate its dominance by “sweeping clean” the opposition.
Speaking at an APC summit held on Thursday at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa in Abuja, Tinubu addressed critics alarmed by the growing trend of defections to the ruling party, framing the shift as a natural response to political realities.
“Welcome to progress; sweep them clean,” Tinubu proclaimed, responding to concerns over the APC’s increasing grip on Nigeria’s political landscape. “I just need to tell those who say a one-party system is no good: you don’t blame people bailing out of a sinking ship when they have no life jackets. I’m glad,” he added, signaling openness to more defections.
Welcome to progress; sweep them clean, just need to tell those who say a one-party system is no good: you don’t blame people bailing out of a sinking ship when they have no life jackets. I’m glad
The President’s remarks come amid a wave of high-profile defections, including Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and his entire cabinet, who recently joined the APC. Speculation is rife that Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno may soon follow suit.
These defections have fueled accusations that the APC is orchestrating a move toward a one-party state, a charge Tinubu dismissed as misguided. “It’s one party ruling and driving the aspiration of Nigerians,” he said, emphasizing the APC’s role in unifying the nation’s political direction.
I wonder what changed now
Tinubu’s comments have drawn sharp reactions. Critics argue that a one-party system undermines democratic principles, with some recalling Tinubu’s own opposition to such a structure in the past.
“He was among those who kicked against the one-party state; I wonder what changed now,” said one observer on X, reflecting a sentiment of disbelief and concern.
Others warned of a deliberate strategy to weaken opposition parties, pointing to ongoing crises within rival factions as evidence of external interference.
Supporters, however, view the defections as a vote of confidence in Tinubu’s leadership and the APC’s agenda. They argue that opposition members are joining the ruling party to align with a vision of progress and stability.
The summit, attended by APC leaders and stakeholders, highlighted the party’s strategy to strengthen its hold ahead of future elections. Tinubu’s unapologetic stance has reignited debates about the health of Nigeria’s democracy, with analysts warning that a dominant one-party system could stifle dissent and weaken accountability.
As the nation grapples with these developments, Tinubu’s call to “sweep them clean” sets the stage for a contentious political season, with the APC poised to capitalize on its growing influence while critics rally to preserve Nigeria’s multi-party framework.
