Tinubu Denies Undermining Opposition, Says Defections Not Coerced
ABUJA, NIGERIA — President Bola Tinubu has dismissed claims that his administration is weakening opposition parties, stating that he has neither pressured nor coerced any politician to defect to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Speaking amid ongoing political debates over recent party defections, the president rejected allegations of political intimidation, emphasizing that decisions by political actors to change affiliations were made independently.
“I did not kill any opposition,” Tinubu said, stressing that Nigeria’s democratic system guarantees freedom of association and political choice. He maintained that the growth of the APC through defections should not be interpreted as an erosion of democratic competition.
The president’s remarks follow heightened public discourse regarding shifts in party alignments and accusations from critics who argue that opposition parties are facing systemic pressures. Tinubu, however, insisted that the political environment remains open and constitutionally guided.
Analysts say the issue of defections has become increasingly sensitive within Nigeria’s political landscape, often raising questions about party stability, ideological loyalty, and electoral strategy. Supporters of the administration argue that defections reflect confidence in government policies, while critics warn of potential imbalances in political representation.
The president reiterated his commitment to democratic principles, noting that a vibrant opposition remains essential to governance and accountability.
Political observers suggest that the debate over party defections and opposition strength is likely to remain prominent as Nigeria approaches future electoral cycles.
