Tinubu Refutes Claims of Attacking Opposition, Insists He Had No Weapon

President Bola Tinubu has rebutted claims suggesting that his government is facilitating the downfall of opposition parties, asserting that he has not pressured politicians to defect or utilized state power to quell opposing voices.

During an interfaith Iftar event with senators at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, the President confronted the mounting criticisms alleging that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) is reaping benefits from pressure purportedly exerted on opposition figures to shift loyalties.

"Critics will always speak. They say I am eliminating the opposition, but I never had a gun to do so. Had I been inclined, I could have easily secured a license, given my position," Tinubu remarked.

These statements come at a time when there is significant movement of political figures from opposition parties into the APC, further fueling claims from detractors that the political atmosphere is being skewed toward the ruling party's advantage.

Dismissing the allegations, Tinubu asserted that the defections are driven by individual choice, not coercion. "I cannot fault anyone for leaving a sinking ship if that is their decision," he noted, implying that internal strife within opposition parties could be contributing to members' exits.

He also linked the deepening political discord to broader national security issues, particularly terrorism and banditry, describing these threats as significant destabilizing forces.

"The challenges our nation faces, including terrorism and banditry, are wreaking havoc on our society," the President emphasized.

Tinubu called on political leaders across various party lines to prioritize unity and the strengthening of democracy, highlighting that Nigeria's constitutional framework aims to encourage collaboration rather than conflict.

"We must unite in accordance with the vision of our forebears, fostering a constitutional democracy that binds us together. They did not advocate for fighting. It is beneficial that we operate in harmony," he said.