President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has accused opposition parties of deliberately distorting the provisions of the Electoral Act 2026 for political gain, warning that such actions could undermine Nigeria’s democratic progress.
Speaking at the 4th Elective National Convention of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abuja on Friday, Tinubu said persistent criticisms of the law by opposition groups were misleading and counterproductive.
He maintained that while dissent remains a cornerstone of democracy, misrepresentation of the electoral framework weakens public trust in the system.
According to the President, the Electoral Act 2026 was the product of a transparent and inclusive legislative process, involving public hearings and scrutiny by the National Assembly.
“The constant attacks by opposition groups on the Electoral Act 2026 are a disservice to Nigerians,” he said, stressing that the law reflects a collective national effort to strengthen democratic institutions.
Tinubu argued that portraying the Act as anti-democratic ignores due process and risks eroding confidence in elections, insisting it should not be reduced to partisan rhetoric.
Addressing concerns over the growing dominance of the APC, Tinubu dismissed claims that his administration is steering Nigeria toward a one-party state.
“We do not seek a one-party state,” he said, emphasising that a vibrant opposition is essential for accountability and effective governance.
He noted that democracy thrives on competition, adding that credible opposition helps refine policies and strengthen leadership.
The President, however, described recent defections into the APC as a sign of increasing public confidence in the party’s vision, rather than a threat to democratic balance.
Tinubu cautioned party members against internal divisions, warning that political parties often collapse due to infighting rather than electoral defeat.
“Parties falter when ego overrides ideology and ambition replaces discipline,” he said, urging stakeholders to prioritise unity and shared values.
He called on delegates to conduct themselves responsibly during the convention, stressing that cohesion remains the party’s greatest strength.
The President also defended his administration’s economic policies, acknowledging the hardship associated with reforms but insisting they are necessary for long-term stability.
“We knew the road to reform would be tough,” Tinubu said, adding that no economy can grow while sustaining inefficient subsidies and outdated systems.
He pointed to improving economic indicators, including easing inflation, rising investor confidence, and increased activity in the stock market, as signs of progress.
Tinubu further highlighted gains such as trade surpluses and Nigeria’s improved global financial standing following its exit from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list.
Earlier, key APC figures, including former Katsina State Governor Aminu Masari, Finance Minister Wale Edun, and Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma, commended the President’s leadership and reform agenda.
Masari described the convention as a defining moment for the party to reaffirm its values and direction, while Edun credited Tinubu’s policies with stabilising the economy and driving growth.
Uzodinma, speaking for the Progressive Governors Forum, said the administration’s reforms have strengthened the foundation for long-term development and national renewal.
He added that APC remains committed to policies that promote economic opportunity, social protection, and inclusive growth across the country.