Tinubu Mocks Opposition, Welcomes More Defections to APC
President Bola Tinubu on Thursday took a swipe at Nigeria’s opposition parties and coalition groups, declaring them ineffective and likening them to “empty vessels.” He suggested that the political opposition, in its current form, lacks substance and vitality.
Speaking at the APC National Summit held under the theme “Renewed Hope Agenda: The Journey So Far,” Tinubu exuded confidence in the strength and future of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). He expressed optimism that more political figures would soon defect to the APC, stating that the party remains open and welcoming to new members.
“All who are willing to align with our progressive vision are welcome,” the President said, reinforcing the idea of an expanding political base for the ruling party.
Tinubu also defended the recent wave of defections, citing constitutional rights. According to him, the freedom of association and movement is enshrined in Section 41(1) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), and as such, political realignment should not be seen as illegal or unusual.
His comments followed recent high-profile defections from the opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC. Notably, in April 2025, Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, and several other PDP leaders officially crossed over to the ruling party.
Adding to the President’s show of political strength, all 22 governors under the Progressives Governors’ Forum (PGF) unanimously passed a vote of confidence in President Tinubu’s leadership.
The President’s remarks appear to signal a renewed push to consolidate political dominance ahead of the next electoral cycle, while simultaneously undermining the influence of opposition parties.
