Democracy Day: One-party State Not Possible in Nigeria – Tinubu

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has dismissed widespread speculation that Nigeria is drifting toward a one-party state under the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC), declaring unequivocally that such a future is neither intended nor desirable for the country.

Speaking during the 2025 Democracy Day joint session at the National Assembly on June 12, 2025, the President addressed what he described as a “terrible rumour,” affirming his personal and political commitment to Nigeria’s multi-party democracy.

“To those who ring the alarm that the APC is intent on a one-party state, I offer you a most personal promise. While your alarm may be as a result of your panic, it rings in error,” he stated.

Tinubu cited his political history as evidence of his commitment to opposition politics and democratic pluralism. Recalling his time as the lone progressive governor in the South-West during the PDP’s dominance in 2003, he said, “They boasted of ruling Nigeria for the next half century. Yet, I stood alone… Even with all of that, they could not control our national destiny because fate is written from above.”

He further emphasized that the APC’s emergence was, in fact, a response to previous failed attempts at creating a one-party state, and he would not repeat such mistakes. “A greater power did not want Nigeria to become a one-party state back then. Nigeria will not become such a state now,” he assured.

While welcoming new members from opposition parties including recent defections led by Governors Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State and Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom,  Tinubu said the APC must not close its doors to those willing to join.

He, however, advised political parties losing members to reflect on their internal challenges rather than make baseless accusations. “Try your best to put your house in order. I will not help you do so,” he added.