The Presidency on Sunday strongly refuted claims that Nigeria’s democracy is under threat, describing recent criticisms by opposition figures and rights groups as baseless and alarmist.
In a statement signed by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy, the government assured Nigerians that multiparty democracy remains alive and strong across the country.
The response follows accusations from opposition politicians and activists who alleged that recent defections from major opposition parties to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) were orchestrated efforts to erode democratic principles.
Onanuga highlighted that political realignments — such as the open support for President Tinubu by Akwa Ibom Governor Umo Eno, the defection of Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, and other prominent figures like former vice-presidential candidate Ifeanyi Okowa — were voluntary acts of political freedom, not the result of coercion or bribery as claimed.
“The opposition cannot blame President Tinubu and the APC for their poor organisation, indiscipline, and incompetence,” the statement said. “It is not part of President Tinubu’s job to organise or strengthen opposition parties.”
The Presidency argued that freedom of association and political choice are fundamental pillars of democracy, and that the movement of politicians across party lines should not be mischaracterized as a threat to Nigeria’s democratic system.
Onanuga criticised what he described as the hypocrisy of those who earlier celebrated defections against the APC but now decry new shifts that favour the ruling party.
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“They celebrated the defection of former Governor Nasir El-Rufai to the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and the formation of a regional coalition against Tinubu, yet they cry foul when politicians move freely towards the APC,” he said.
He stressed that President Tinubu remains a committed democrat with a long-standing record of strengthening opposition platforms, noting that under his leadership, the APC has become a viable and attractive platform for Nigerians across the country.
“The administration remains resolutely committed to upholding and strengthening the democratic foundations upon which our Fourth Republic has stood since 1999,” the statement added.
The Presidency urged citizens to dismiss “alarmist” narratives and support efforts to protect and advance Nigeria’s democracy.
President Tinubu’s political team, led by APC National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje, was also praised for successfully attracting new members and maintaining a vibrant multiparty political environment.