Tinubu Accuses Opposition of Twisting Electoral Act for Political Gain

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has accused opposition parties of deliberately misrepresenting the Electoral Act for political advantage, 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, the President said persistent criticisms of the Electoral Act 2026 by opposition groups were misleading and harmful to public confidence in the electoral system.

 

“While we welcome criticism, the constant attacks by opposition groups on the Electoral Act 2026 are a disservice to the Nigerian people,” Tinubu said.

 

He stressed that the law emerged from a thorough legislative process, including public hearings, and was passed by elected representatives in line with constitutional provisions.

 

“It is public knowledge that the processes leading to the amendment of the 2022 Electoral Act passed through legislative scrutiny. The Act reflects our collective quest as a nation to strengthen our electoral system and consolidate democratic rule,” he added.

 

Tinubu dismissed claims that his administration was steering Nigeria toward a one-party state, despite recent defections to the ruling APC, insisting that democracy thrives on healthy opposition.

 

“We do not seek a one-party state. Democracy thrives on vibrant competition. A credible opposition helps refine policies and improve governance,” he said.

 

The President also cautioned APC members against internal divisions, warning that political parties often collapse due to ego and lack of discipline rather than electoral defeat.

 

“Political parties falter when ego overrides ideology or when ambition replaces discipline. We must guard against those tendencies,” he noted, urging unity among party stakeholders.

 

On the economy, Tinubu defended his administration’s reforms, acknowledging their difficulty but insisting they were necessary for long-term stability.

 

“We knew the road to reform would be tough. No nation grows by sustaining wasteful subsidies or dysfunctional priorities,” he said, adding that key economic indicators were beginning to improve.

 

According to him, inflation is easing, investor confidence is returning, and Nigeria is moving “from survival mode to stability.”

 

Earlier, APC leaders including former Katsina State Governor Aminu Masari, Finance Minister Wale Edun, and Chairman of the Progressives Governors Forum, Hope Uzodinma, commended the President’s reforms and leadership.

 

They expressed confidence that the party would remain united and continue to drive economic growth and national development.