The All Progressives Congress has dismissed suggestions that Nigeria is becoming a one-party state, claiming that the country is still a complete multi-party democracy.
Surajudeen Ajibola Basiru, the party’s National Secretary, made the assertion during an Arise TV media chat on Wednesday.
“According to the most recent estimates, Nigeria has approximately 200 million people, with the APC having the highest proportion of any political organization.
So, when it comes to Nigerians expressing collectively, you can’t rely on what I call a cacophony of individuals shouting from emotion without facts. As a government, we must respect democratic institutions, and no one should throw doubt on democracy or the courts without compelling evidence.
“One of the most important elements of democracy is the diversity of ideas and the ability to speak without fear. Nigeria now boasts a thriving and autonomous media space. Every day, there are editorials and talk shows that criticise the government. That demonstrates that freedom of expression, association, and organization is still alive in our society.”
He stated that Nigeria today has roughly 19 registered political parties, saying that this alone disproves claims of one-party dominance.
“At latest count, Nigeria has 19 registered political parties. Those that claim to have problems do not have more than four or five. So you can’t argue there’s a one-party state.
He emphasised that the APC is still focused on developing its structures and expanding grassroots support across the country, rather than making what he saw as pointless political accusations.
“The APC’s job is fairly obvious. We aspire to develop a pan-Nigerian political party that actually resonates with the grassroots and can articulate policies and programmes consistent with the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda. We shall not be diverted by those whose outrage is motivated by feelings that are not grounded in facts,” he said.