Tinubu Delights in Opposition Disarray, Affirms Commitment to Multiparty Democracy

ABUJA — In a bold and candid address to a joint session of the National Assembly, President Bola Tinubu declared he takes pleasure in witnessing opposition parties struggle internally, stating that he has no intentions of offering them assistance to reorganize. The remarks came on Thursday during his State of the Nation address marking Nigeria’s 2025 Democracy Day celebrations.

Speaking before lawmakers in Abuja, President Tinubu addressed growing concerns surrounding political defections and fears of a slide into one-party dominance. He firmly rejected the notion that Nigeria is on the path to a one-party state under his leadership. However, he emphasized that parties must take responsibility for their own internal cohesion.

“For me, I would say try your best to put your house in order. I will not help you do so. It is, indeed, a pleasure to witness you in such disarray,” Tinubu stated, directly referencing the state of disunity within opposition ranks.

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Pleasure in Political Disarray: Tinubu Fires Sharp Words at Opposition

The president’s comments come amid a wave of defections from opposition parties into the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), sparking debates over political balance and fairness. Critics have accused the administration of orchestrating moves toward political monopoly, an allegation Tinubu vehemently denied.

“A one-party state is not in the offing. Nor should it ever be,” he said. “That said, we would be guilty of political malpractice if we closed the door on those from other parties who now seek to join the APC.”

Welcoming new members into the APC fold, including key figures from Delta and Akwa Ibom States such as Governors Sheriff Oborevwori and Pastor Umo Eno, Tinubu asserted that his party remains open to all Nigerians, regardless of prior political alignment.

He emphasized the need for salutary political competition, stating that Nigeria’s strength lies in its pluralism. “Our efforts must never be to eliminate political competition,” Tinubu added, “but to make that competition beneficial to national well-being by working across the political aisle whenever possible.”

In addition to addressing party politics, Tinubu used the opportunity to honor several national figures with posthumous national awards. Among the recipients were the late Kudirat Abiola, environmental activist Ken Saro-Wiwa, Nobel laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka, and former Chief of Staff Shehu Musa Yar’Adua.

“I shall also be exercising my powers under the prerogative of mercy to grant these national heroes a full pardon,” the president said, hinting at more names to be announced following consultations with the National Council of State.

The president’s forthright message — combining sharp political commentary with gestures of national reconciliation — reflects his administration’s blend of assertiveness and outreach. As Nigeria marks another Democracy Day, the balance between political rivalry and unity remains a defining theme under Tinubu’s tenure.