“Critics must talk,” he said, adding that although some have accused him of killing the opposition, he “didn’t have a gun” to do so. He noted that no one was coerced into leaving their political parties and that defections should be seen as voluntary decisions.
Tinubu likened defections to individuals leaving a “sinking ship,” suggesting that challenging security and economic conditions, including terrorism and banditry, have influenced politicians’ choices.
The president also urged political leaders to prioritise national unity, saying democracy requires cooperation rather than conflict, and emphasised that politicians should be free to express opinions and make autonomous decisions without accusations of force or intimidation.
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President Bola Tinubu has rejected claims that his administration is behind the weakening or “killing” of opposition parties in Nigeria, insisting that politicians who joined the ruling APC did so willingly and not through coercion. President Bola Tinubu has dismissed allegations that he is responsible for undermining opposition parties, saying he has “no gun” and did not force...
Key takeaways
- President Bola Tinubu has rejected claims that his administration is behind the weakening or “killing” of opposition parties in Nigeria, insisting that politicians who joined the ruling APC did so willingly and not through coercion.
- President Bola Tinubu has dismissed allegations that he is responsible for undermining opposition parties, saying he has “no gun” and did not force anyone to defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
- Speaking during an interfaith iftar with senators at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Wednesday, Tinubu responded to critics who claimed his administration was “killing” the opposition through political pressure and manipulation.
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What is this story about?
President Bola Tinubu has rejected claims that his administration is behind the weakening or “killing” of opposition parties in Nigeria, insisting that politicians who joined the ruling APC did so willingly and not through coercion. President Bola Tinubu has dismissed allegations that he is responsible for undermining opposition parties, saying he has “no gun” and did not force...
Who published this story?
Glow 99.1 FM published this story with Oyetoke Adedayo Ebenezer listed as author.
When was it published?
February 26, 2026
