“I Never Stopped INEC from Registering Parties” — President Tinubu Clarifies on Democracy Day
Abuja, Nigeria — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has firmly dismissed claims that his administration interfered with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to halt the registration of new political parties.
Addressing lawmakers during a special Democracy Day session at the National Assembly on Thursday, President Tinubu clarified the growing speculation, emphasizing that the electoral body has operated independently under his leadership.
“I have never stopped the registration of any political party,” Tinubu stated, directly countering allegations circulating in the media and political circles. “INEC has never been asked to do so under my administration.”
The president also rejected accusations that he is working to turn Nigeria into a one-party state. While expressing confidence in the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Tinubu said inclusivity remains a core value of the party.
“We would be guilty of political malpractice if we closed our doors to those who now seek to join the APC,” he said, hinting at growing interest from politicians across the country in joining the ruling party.
President Tinubu’s remarks come amid heightened political discourse around the proliferation of parties and internal party realignments ahead of the next general elections.
The clarification is expected to calm political tensions and reaffirm the administration’s commitment to democratic plurality and electoral integrity.
