Tinubu Welcomes Opposition Defectors, Says APC Will Not Bar Entry Amid Democracy Day Address

In a bold and politically charged address to a joint session of the National Assembly on Thursday, President Bola Tinubu declared that the All Progressives Congress (APC) would keep its doors open to defectors from opposition parties. The statement, made during Democracy Day celebrations, stirred both applause and debate across Nigeria’s political spectrum.

Speaking candidly before federal lawmakers, President Tinubu took a firm stance on the state of Nigeria’s political opposition, stating that he found no obligation to aid rival parties in resolving their internal crises. Rather, he described their turmoil as “a pleasure” to observe.

“Political parties fearful of members leaving may be better served by examining their internal processes and affairs rather than fearfully conjuring up demons that do not exist,” Tinubu said, clearly targeting the fraying structures within opposition camps.

“For me, I will not say, ‘Try your best to put your house in order.’ I will not help you to do so either. It is indeed a pleasure to witness you in such disarray,” the President declared, drawing cheers from APC members seated in the chamber.

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Tinubu: Embrace Party Diversity, But Don’t Fear Defections

President Tinubu’s remarks follow an uptick in defections from opposition ranks, with notable figures crossing over to the APC. The President notably welcomed new APC members from Delta and Akwa Ibom States, specifically naming Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and Pastor Umo Eno as recent additions, alongside lawmakers from the same states.

He clarified, however, that his comments should not be misconstrued as a call for a one-party system, stating that such a scenario would be antithetical to Nigeria’s democratic ethos.

“A one-party state is not in the offing, nor should it ever be,” Tinubu 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.”

The President emphasized the importance of political competition, urging that Nigeria’s democracy must thrive on healthy rivalry and collaboration across party lines. “Our efforts must never be to eliminate political competition but to make that competition salutary to the national well-being by working across the political aisle whenever possible,” he added.

Opposition Reacts as Ruling Party Gains Momentum

Tinubu’s remarks come at a time when several opposition parties, particularly the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and Labour Party (LP), are struggling with internal divisions and leadership battles. Some party leaders view the recent wave of defections as part of a broader strategy by the APC to consolidate power ahead of future elections.

While Tinubu’s comments were well received within his party, critics outside the APC have accused the President of exploiting the vulnerability of the opposition rather than promoting a level political playing field. A spokesperson for the PDP, who asked not to be named, described the comments as “gloating” and “unpresidential,” warning that such rhetoric undermines Nigeria’s democratic maturity.

However, within the APC, the President’s stance is being framed as a pragmatic acknowledgment of political realities in a multiparty democracy. Lawmakers from the ruling party lauded Tinubu for his transparency and political openness, calling it a refreshing shift from the rhetoric of earlier administrations.

A Call for Unity Amid Partisan Loyalties

The President’s Democracy Day speech wasn’t solely partisan. Tinubu used the opportunity to reflect on Nigeria’s democratic journey and reiterated his administration’s commitment to good governance, electoral reform, and national cohesion.

He urged lawmakers across all parties to work collaboratively on critical issues affecting the nation. “We must welcome and accept the diversity and number of political parties just as we welcome and embrace the diversity of our population,” he said.

This dual tone — both welcoming and assertively partisan — has drawn a mixed reaction from the public. Some political analysts argue that while Tinubu’s embrace of defectors is legally and politically valid, the overt celebration of opposition disarray could fuel further polarization.

Still, the growing strength of the APC, bolstered by defectors and a unified leadership under Tinubu, indicates a shifting power dynamic ahead of the next electoral cycle.

As Nigeria continues to navigate the complexities of democracy, Tinubu’s message on Thursday clearly signals that the ruling party is positioning itself as both an open house and a dominant force — one ready to absorb, not just confront, its political rivals.