Tinubu Declares Opposition Dead, Welcomes More Defections to APC

President Bola Tinubu, speaking at the APC National Summit themed “Renewed Hope Agenda: The Journey So Far” in Abuja on Thursday, May 22, 2025, boldly declared the opposition, including coalition movements, as effectively “dead,” describing their remaining members as “empty vessels.” In a tone that appeared to taunt opposition parties, Tinubu expressed optimism about further defections to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), stating, “As many as are willing to join the APC fold are most welcome.” He emphasized that political movement is protected under Section 41(1) of the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria, which guarantees freedom of association.

Tinubu’s remarks come in the wake of significant defections, notably in April 2025, when Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, and other prominent People’s Democratic Party (PDP) officials switched to the APC. The President framed these defections as a reflection of the APC’s growing appeal, driven by his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which he claims is delivering tangible progress in economic reforms, security, and infrastructure. He dismissed concerns about a one-party state, arguing that the defections are a democratic choice, not a threat to pluralism, and noted that Nigeria has over 60 registered political parties.

The summit also saw the 22 APC governors, under the Progressive Governors’ Forum (PGF) led by Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma, unanimously pass a vote of confidence in Tinubu, endorsing him as the party’s sole candidate for the 2027 presidential election. Tinubu highlighted his administration’s achievements, including eliminating foreign exchange arbitrage and attracting foreign direct investments, which he said are creating jobs and improving living standards. He urged party members to rally behind the Renewed Hope Agenda, assuring them that the reforms, though tough, are necessary for Nigeria’s long-term prosperity. The wave of defections, particularly from the PDP, has sparked concerns among opposition figures about a potential drift toward a one-party system, but Tinubu’s administration maintains that these shifts reflect confidence in his leadership and vision for Nigeria.