Tinubu Rejects One-Party State Allegations
President Bola Tinubu on Thursday strongly denied involvement in the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) refusal to register a new political party, dismissing claims that he is pushing Nigeria toward a one-party system.
Speaking during his Democracy Day address at the National Assembly, Tinubu said:
“I have never attempted to alter any political party registration with INEC.”
He described the claims as politically charged and unfounded, stressing his commitment to multi-party democracy.
“Panic Rings in Error,” Says Tinubu
Addressing growing speculation that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) is attempting to consolidate power and crush opposition parties, the President stated:
“At no time in the past, nor any instance in the present, and at no future juncture shall I view the notion of a one-party state as good for Nigeria.”
He added pointedly:
“To those who ring the alarm that the APC is intent on a one-party state, I offer you a most personal promise. While your alarm may be as a result of your panic, it rings in error.”
APC Defections: “Don’t Blame Anyone Jumping a Sinking Ship”
President Tinubu also addressed the wave of defections from opposition parties into the APC, which has fueled fears of democratic backsliding. He said such movements are voluntary and a reflection of Nigeria’s political dynamics.
“We cannot blame anybody seeking to bail out of a sinking ship even without a life jacket.”
Amaechi Accuses INEC of Partisanship
Tinubu’s comments follow recent criticism by former Rivers State governor and current Minister of Transport, Rotimi Amaechi, who accused INEC of partisanship and obstructing the formation of new political parties.
Speaking on Arise TV on June 4, Amaechi alleged:
“Already he [INEC Chairman Mahmood Yakubu] is stopping parties from being registered. INEC has taken sides; it is no longer an umpire.”
He added that INEC’s recent reforms do not favour transparency or fairness, given the absence of new parties to compete.
What This Means for Nigeria’s Political Landscape
As Nigeria inches toward the 2027 general elections, the controversy over INEC’s role and the state of opposition parties may shape political discourse. While Tinubu denies any personal involvement, the opposition continues to question the neutrality of key democratic institutions.
