President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has assured Nigerians that the country will not drift into a one-party state under his leadership.

Speaking during a joint session of the National Assembly on Thursday in Abuja as part of Democracy Day celebrations, Tinubu made it clear that while the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) remains open to welcoming defectors from opposition parties, it would be wrong to suggest that democracy in Nigeria is under threat.

“Nigeria will not become a one-party state. A one-party state is not in the offing. But we will be doing political malpractice if we close the doors for those who want to join APC,” the president stated.

He added that the APC would not discourage members of opposition parties from joining its ranks, saying it was better to watch them “in such a disarray.”

“It is better to witness them (opposition parties) in such a disarray,” Tinubu said, noting that it was not his duty to help the opposition organize themselves.

Reiterating his stance on political inclusion, Tinubu said: “You are all welcome to the progressive fold. Nobody should close the door. Political parties fearful of members leaving may be better served by examining their internal processes and affairs, rather than fearfully conjuring up demons that do not exist.”

The president reaffirmed his belief in democratic governance, acknowledging its flaws but emphasizing its importance.

“Democracy is not perfect, but it is the best path we have chosen. And we must walk it together sometimes in disagreement, but always in hope,” he concluded.