The All Progressives Congress has defended the administration of President Bola Tinubu, insisting that Nigeria’s democracy remains strong while dismissing claims that it is responsible for the internal crises rocking opposition parties.
The position was stated on Wednesday during a media chat in Abuja by APC National Chairman, Prof Nentawe Yilwatda, and National Secretary, Dr Ajibola Basiru.
Their comments come amid ongoing leadership disputes within the African Democratic Congress and the Peoples Democratic Party, which have resulted in factional divisions and multiple court cases ahead of the 2027 elections.
The crisis intensified following the decision of the Independent National Electoral Commission to derecognise the ADC National Working Committee led by Mr David Mark and Mr Rauf Aregbesola on 1st April.
Opposition allegations
Opposition figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi, Mr Peter Obi, and Mr Rabiu Kwankwaso, have accused President Tinubu administration of undermining opposition parties and weakening democracy.
They also criticised the government’s handling of the economy and insecurity.
However, Dr Basiru rejected the claims, stressing that democratic freedoms remain intact.
“So democracy is not just about the unbridled ambition of a few individuals to continue to be in the corridors of power perpetually,” he said.
“The second hallmark of democracy is heterogeneity of ideas, freedom of speech, freedom of association, and of course, freedom to organise. And these are clearly evident in our country.”
He added, “As of the last count, we have no less than 19 registered political parties in Nigeria… the majority of Nigerian political parties do not have any problems.”
Legal disputes
Dr Basiru attributed the crises within opposition parties to internal mismanagement and disregard for due process.
“Speaking of facts, if out of 19 or so political parties, four have issues, the question you ask of them is: are they conducting affairs within the framework of the law?” he said.
He cited rulings by the Supreme Court of Nigeria and the Court of Appeal Nigeria, noting that some factions had acted in violation of court directives.
“And I will give today… the Court of Appeal would say that status quo ante bellum should be maintained… yet, some people still gather themselves… and say that they are organising a convention, which is clearly in violation of the law,” he said.
“The question is, where is the hand of the APC in that regard?”
Security and reforms
On insecurity, Dr Basiru acknowledged ongoing challenges but maintained that progress has been made.
“Let us separate facts from fiction. On security, progress has been made, even though challenges remain. In the last few weeks, about 350 suspects linked to insecurity have been prosecuted,” he said.
He stressed that insecurity should not be politicised.
“We must also avoid politicising insecurity… Security must be treated as a collective national responsibility, not a political tool.”
Dr Basiru also called for reforms within the Nigeria Police Force, noting limitations in current capacity.
“The current structure of the Nigeria Police Force is insufficient for the size of the country… There is therefore a strong case for decentralisation and reforms.”
Economic outlook
Prof Yilwatda described the administration’s reforms as necessary despite their impact.
“Mr President took that bold step… Today, we are seeing the benefits. There are macroeconomic improvements; there is more revenue to the states,” he said.
He added, “Last year, we had a tax surplus of over N6tn… GDP is growing… Our foreign reserves have seen almost N50tn.”
While acknowledging hardship, he said, “We acknowledge the pains; it is real… but we are working to reach as many Nigerians as possible.”
Call to opposition
Prof Yilwatda maintained that opposition parties must take responsibility for their internal challenges.
“So, if they don’t have internal democracy, we have one… The ADC and other opposition political parties should stop blaming the APC for their failure,” he said.
“Why can’t the ADC have a convention to elect David Mark and his caucus?”
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