The Presidency has defended Bola Tinubu after the African Democratic Congress accused him of remarks that could undermine Nigeria’s democracy.
Presidency Rejects ADC Allegations
However, the ADC National Legislators Serving and Former Forum, led by Nnenna Ukeje, said Tinubu’s comments on the party’s convention in Abuja showed a shrinking political space. The group also said the President’s current stance contradicts his past as an opposition figure who supported pluralism and judicial independence.
Meanwhile, the Presidency pushed back through Sunday Dare, Special Adviser on Media and Public Communication. He said the forum twisted Tinubu’s remarks for political gain. He described the group as “conspiracy theorists” struggling with internal balance.
Furthermore, Dare said the ADC suffers internal disarray. He argued that the President did not mention the party when he described a political gathering as “noise” and a “street convention.”
Presidency Insists Comments Were General
In response, Dare said the ADC wrongly assumed the remarks targeted them. He maintained that Tinubu spoke broadly, in line with his usual political style.
Consequently, he described the opposition coalition as a hurried platform seeking relevance ahead of elections. He also rejected claims that Nigeria’s democracy faces any threat.
Furthermore, Dare said democratic institutions remain strong and functional. He stressed that the judiciary operates independently and should not face political pressure.
Warning Against Attacks on Institutions
However, Dare warned against attempts to weaken public trust in the courts. He said such claims lack evidence and could damage confidence in key institutions.
Meanwhile, he accused opposition figures of launching early attacks before the election season begins. He said they aim to discredit the electoral process and draw international attention with unproven claims.
Furthermore, Dare referenced the ADC’s own acknowledgment of Tinubu’s democratic record. He said the party admitted Tinubu’s role in building opposition politics and defending democracy over the years.
Consequently, he called the ADC’s claims contradictory. He argued that a leader’s record cannot suddenly change without proof.
Contradictions in ADC Position
In response, Dare said the ADC praised Tinubu’s democratic history but later accused him without evidence. He described that position as weak and inconsistent.
Meanwhile, he insisted that Tinubu’s political values remain intact. He said the President continues to uphold the same principles that defined his past.
Furthermore, Dare clarified that Tinubu never mentioned the ADC directly or indirectly. He said the party’s reaction shows it wrongly took the comments personally.
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