In a statement issued on Sunday by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy, the government reaffirmed its commitment to democratic principles. Onanuga insisted that the act of politicians switching allegiance does not equate to a breakdown of democracy. Rather, it is a testament to the freedom of association enshrined within the country’s political framework.
Onanuga explained, “Nigerians joining the APC and pledging loyalty to President Tinubu are doing so freely, motivated by a belief in the positive direction of the reforms underway, intended to benefit both current citizens and future generations.”
The recent defection of prominent figures such as Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, Deputy Governor Monday Onyeme, several commissioners, and numerous local government chairmen. Notably, Okowa had served as the vice-presidential candidate for the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in the last general elections, making his switch particularly impactful.
The defection significantly weakened the PDP’s standing, raising questions about the opposition’s ability to effectively challenge the ruling party in the 2027 elections. Meanwhile, internal crises continue to plague other major opposition parties, including the Labour Party and the New Nigerian Peoples Party (NNPP), leading many political observers to speculate about the future competitiveness of Nigerian politics.
In response to allegations that the ruling APC might be engineering the collapse of opposition forces through coercion, the Presidency was unequivocal in its denial. Onanuga argued that the disorganisation, internal strife, and poor leadership plaguing opposition parties cannot be laid at President Tinubu’s feet.
“It is not the responsibility of President Tinubu or the APC to organise or salvage the opposition,” Onanuga stated. He added that the same critics now crying foul had previously celebrated the defection of former Kaduna State Governor Mallam Nasir El-Rufai to the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and the formation of regional coalitions aimed at unseating Tinubu.
He further questioned why there was no outcry when opposition figures cobbled together anti-APC alliances along regional lines, while every defection to the APC is now painted as evidence of democratic decline.
Onanuga also stressed that politicians must be free to change party affiliations without facing accusations of betrayal or coercion.
He remarked, “Without freedom of choice, association, and speech, democracy cannot survive. Politicians and citizens alike must have the liberty to support any political platform without fear.”
The Special Adviser criticised those who accuse the government of authoritarian tendencies, arguing that their very ability to express dissent freely is proof of Nigeria’s democratic vibrancy under Tinubu’s leadership.
He stated, “Those who oppose this administration do so without fear or repression. This shows that democracy is alive and well in Nigeria, despite the alarmist narratives pushed by a few discontented voices.”
