Tinubu: APC against one-party state — democracy thrives on vibrant opposition
President Bola Tinubu has rejected claims that Nigeria is headed towards a one-party state.
He added that a healthy opposition is imperative for development and progress.
Speaking at the national convention of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abuja on March 27, Tinubu said democracy thrives when there is credible opposition.
The opposition has repeatedly accused Tinubu and the APC of plotting to turn the country into a one-party state.
“Let us say this clearly and sincerely. We are here for national unity and greatness. We are not going to look back. Critics can say it anyway they want,” the president said.
“We thank the Lord for what we have been doing in the last three years — 26 years of unbroken freedom, commitment and 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. That is how nations advance.”
The president added that the right to associate freely as enshrined in the constitution, cannot be trampled on, nor can the APC be prevented from exercising that right as it deems fit.
“But we cannot burn the constitutional freedom of our association. As a statesman and a political leader, I believe in credible opposition,” Tinubu said.
“One, you can challenge, question and help refine policies. That is how improvements and good governance are achieved. That is how all nations thrive.”
‘ECONOMIC REFORMS YIELDING RESULTS’
Tinubu also said the economic reforms initiated by his administration have begun to yield results through improved investment and growing interest in the oil and gas sector.
“The government has remained focused on delivering on its mandate to the Nigerian people,” the president said.
“Amid the complex global economic and political environment, today, I can assure you we are on the right track.
“Investors’ confidence has partly improved. Our oil and gas sector has once more become attractive to foreign investment.
“Following our reforms, our Eurobond was oversubscribed by 400%, and Nigeria exited the financial grey list, making a return to global financial credibility.”
