State House Dismisses Allegations of One-Party State Agenda, Reaffirms Nigeria’s Thriving Democracy

The Presidency has strongly refuted claims that Nigeria’s democracy is under threat, following a series of defections by key opposition figures to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

In a statement issued on Saturday, Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy, dismissed concerns raised by opposition politicians and some human rights advocates, describing them as “alarmists” spreading baseless propaganda.

Onanuga noted that recent political shifts—including the support declared by Akwa Ibom Governor Umo Eno, the defection of Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, and the alignment of former PDP vice presidential candidate Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa—have caused unrest within the opposition ranks but do not signify any move towards authoritarianism.

“The opposition elements are understandably heartbroken over the failure of their fabled grand coalition,” Onanuga said, stressing that President Tinubu’s administration remains committed to strengthening Nigeria’s multiparty democracy.

He added that accusations of coercion, bribery, and blackmail were unfounded, insisting that the freedom to associate and express political support is a fundamental pillar of democracy.

“It is not part of President Tinubu’s job to organise or strengthen opposition parties,” the statement read. “Politicians migrating to the APC are doing so out of their free will, based on their belief in the President’s reform agenda.”

Citing global examples, Onanuga argued that political realignments are common even in advanced democracies and that such movements should not be misconstrued as an attempt to establish a one-party system.

He praised the APC leadership under Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje for making the ruling party “viable and attractive,” and reaffirmed President Tinubu’s longstanding commitment to democratic ideals.

“The multiparty system in Nigeria is alive and well. President Tinubu’s democratic credentials are well established, and his administration will continue to uphold the freedoms enshrined in our constitution,” Onanuga concluded.

The Presidency called on Nigerians to respect the political choices of fellow citizens and to disregard what it described as “fictional narratives” from detractors.