Presidency: APC Defections Voluntary, Not Under Duress

The Presidency has responded to growing concerns over the recent defections of opposition politicians to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), insisting that the moves were entirely voluntary and not forced, as some have suggested.

In a statement issued on Sunday, Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy, dismissed fears that Nigeria was becoming a one-party state. He emphasized that democracy in the country was not in jeopardy, pointing out that politicians were merely exercising their fundamental right to join any political party they choose.

“Those migrating to the APC and supporting President Tinubu are doing so by their own free will,” Onanuga said. “They believe the reforms underway will benefit Nigeria today and for generations to come.”

The statement came just days after the defection of key political figures from the opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC, including Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, his predecessor Ifeanyi Okowa, Deputy Governor Monday Onyeme, as well as several local government chairmen and commissioners. The defection of Okowa who was the PDP’s presidential candidate’s running mate in the last election further weakens the opposition party.

Onanuga also commended President Tinubu and the APC’s leadership, particularly National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje, for making the ruling party an attractive choice for Nigerians who want to actively participate in the democratic process.