Tinubu Rejects One-Party System, Vows To Strengthen Nigeria’s Democracy

By Saheed Afolabi

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has rejected calls for a one-party system in Nigeria, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to a vibrant, multi-party democracy.

Speaking on Thursday during his Democracy Day address to a joint session of the National Assembly in Abuja, President Tinubu stressed that democracy thrives on opposition, dialogue, and institutional balance—not on single-party dominance.

“Democracy does not mean everyone must support the President. A vibrant democracy requires opposition and alternative viewpoints,” Tinubu said.

His comment comes amid concerns in some quarters that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) is edging Nigeria toward a de facto one-party state due to its political dominance at the federal and state levels.

Tinubu stated that democracy must be protected and nourished by all arms of government and the citizens, noting that no country can develop under an authoritarian system masquerading as democracy.

He emphasized the importance of rule of law, free press, and political plurality as the bedrock of democratic governance.

The President’s remarks were part of a broader speech commemorating June 12, Nigeria’s Democracy Day, which marks the anniversary of the annulled 1993 presidential election believed to have been won by the late Moshood Kashimawo Abiola.