President Bola Tinubu has dismissed allegations that his administration aims to establish a one-party state in Nigeria, affirming that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) is open to members from other political parties. He made this declaration during a special joint session of the National Assembly in Abuja, held in observance of Democracy Day.
“You are all welcome to the progressive fold. Nobody should close the door,” Tinubu stated, urging political parties concerned about losing members to focus on improving their internal processes instead of fearing unfounded threats.
Reflecting on Nigeria’s democratic progress since the return to civilian rule in 1999, Tinubu expressed pride in the nation’s achievements. He honored the late Chief Moshood Abiola, the presumed winner of the annulled June 12, 1993 presidential election, and praised former President Muhammadu Buhari for recognizing Abiola and designating June 12 as Democracy Day.
The president also acknowledged the sacrifices of pro-democracy activists, including Kudirat Abiola and Pa Alfred Rewane, who suffered under military oppression. He emphasized the need for continued collaboration between the executive and legislature, stating, “While we may not always agree, we must forge a way to work together—because this is what democracy demands of us.”
