President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Friday declared that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has no intention of turning Nigeria into a one-party state, insisting that democracy must remain competitive and inclusive.
Speaking at the APC’s 4th Elective National Convention in Abuja, Tinubu emphasized that the ruling party knows the importance of a mutti-party system and what it does to democracy.
“Let me reiterate, especially to those who often lament and misunderstand us: we do not seek a one-party state. Democracy thrives on vibrant and healthy competition.”
“As a statesman and political leader, I believe in a credible opposition — one that can challenge, question and help refine policies. That is how statecraft improves, and good governance is achieved,” he added.
The President, however, emphasised unity within his party as critical to its survival and future, warning against internal divisions.
According to him, “Our greatest strength has never been in our size or numbers, but our unity,” noting that, “Political parties do not fail only through electoral defeat, they falter when ego overrides ideology or when ambition replaces discipline.”
“We must guard against those tendencies at all costs,” while urging stakeholders to ensure that, “at the end of this convention, our party must be the victor.”
Highlighting the ideological foundation of the APC, Tinubu stressed that the party was not created merely for political ambition.
“This party is not merely a vehicle specially built to carry ambitious politicians to electoral victories. It was founded as a vehicle for national transformation.”
On governance, the President defended his administration’s reform agenda, saying difficult decisions were necessary for long-term stability. He stated, “We knew the road to reform would be tough but no nation rises by hiding from the truth. No economy grows by sustaining wasteful subsidies.”
“The sacrifices of today are laying the foundation for Nigeria’s prosperity tomorrow,” adding that, “We are moving from survival mode to stability and steadily towards an era of prosperity.”
“Inflation has declined steadily for eight consecutive months while business confidence is returning.”
Addressing criticism from opposition groups, Tinubu defended recent electoral reforms.
“While we welcome criticism, the constant attacks by opposition groups on the Electoral Act 2026 are a disservice to the Nigerian people. It is public knowledge that the processes leading to the amendment of the 2022 Electoral Act passed through the crucible of legislative scrutiny, including public hearings. The Electoral Act was passed by the National Assembly, elected by the Nigerian people in accordance with the 1999 Constitution.
“The Electoral Act reflects our collective quest as a nation to strengthen our electoral system and consolidate democratic rule”, he added.
