The Presidency has rejected allegations by opposition figures that Nigeria’s multi-party democracy is under threat, describing such claims as desperate attempts by politicians seeking to remain relevant.
In a statement released on Sunday, Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, said recent criticisms from opposition politicians were “subterfuge and an empty search for scapegoats” by those unwilling to acknowledge their political decline.
Onanuga emphasized that politicians who defected to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) did so voluntarily, noting that the Constitution guarantees freedom of association and the right to change political affiliation. He added that the wave of defections reflected confidence in President Bola Tinubu’s reform agenda, rather than intimidation or coercion.
Highlighting historical precedent, Onanuga questioned whether democracy was ever considered endangered when politicians defected en masse to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) between 2000 and 2015.
He also dismissed claims that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) was being used as a political tool against opposition members, asserting that the anti-graft agency continues to operate independently.
The statement reinforces the Presidency’s position that Nigeria’s democratic institutions remain robust and capable of withstanding political rhetoric and maneuvering.
