I Believe In Credible Opposition – Tinubu

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu says he believes in the existence of a credible opposition that can challenge, question and help refine the policies of government.

The President also rejected insinuations that the ruling All Progressives Congress, (APC) is seeking  to establish a one-party state in Nigeria.

Addressing party leaders, members and supporters at the APC 4th Elective National Convention at Eagle Square, Abuja, the President argued that despite recent defections from the opposition parties, especially governors, he is committed to the existence of a credible opposition.

Tinubu acknowledged the significant growth of the APC through defections, saying, “May you continue to win more converts into the party as we have done in the last two years, when an unprecedented number of new members, governors, senators, representatives, join our party from other political parties.”

He charged incoming party officers to sustain the expansive political structure “through credible leadership and transparent party management, anchored in a reliable, verifiable database of our members nationwide.”

The convention is with the theme “Unity in Progress: Consolidating the Renewed Hope Agenda. Unity in Progress.”

He further said the greatest strength of the APC has never been in “our size or numbers, but our unity.”

“Political parties do not fail only through electoral defeats. Often, they falter when ego overrides ideology or when ambition replaces discipline. They fail when individual interests threaten the collective good. We must guard against those tendencies at all costs.

“Therefore, this Convention must send one clear message to Nigerians and the world: Our party is strong, united, focused and ready for the future.

“We must also remind ourselves that this party is not merely a vehicle specially built to carry ambitious politicians to electoral victories. It was founded as a vehicle for national transformation, a home for anybody who wants to build a Nigeria where governance works, institutions function, opportunities abound, security reigns, poverty declines, and every Nigerian, regardless of tribe, religion, region or social status, can live with dignity and hope.

“Let me reiterate, especially to those who often lament and misunderstand us: we do not seek a one-party state. Democracy thrives on vibrant and healthy competition. As a statesman and political leader, I believe in a credible opposition—one that can challenge, question and help refine policies. That is how statecraft improves, and good governance is achieved. That is how nations advance.

“While we welcome criticism, the constant attacks by opposition groups on the Electoral Act 2026 are a disservice to the Nigerian people. It is public knowledge that the processes leading to the amendment of the 2022 Electoral Act passed through the crucible of legislative scrutiny, including public hearings. The Electoral Act was passed by the National Assembly, elected by the Nigerian people in accordance with the 1999 Constitution.

“The Act reflects our collective quest as a nation to strengthen our electoral system and consolidate democratic rule. Therefore, our commitment is to uphold the rule of law, conduct credible elections and protect the integrity of our elections, and continue building a stronger, secure, and united nation.”