The Special Adviser to the President on Media and Communication, Sunday Dare, has dismissed claims that Nigeria is heading toward a one-party system ahead of the 2027 general elections, insisting that all political parties remain free to operate.
Dare made the clarification during an appearance on Politics Today on Channels Television, where he responded to concerns raised by the African Democratic Congress (ADC) over the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) decision to suspend recognition of the party’s leadership factions following court rulings and internal disputes.
The ADC had accused INEC of attempting to sideline the party from the 2027 elections, staging protests over what it described as an unfair political process. However, INEC maintained that its decision was based on legal judgments and ongoing leadership crises within the party.
Reacting to the allegations, Dare said there was no effort by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) or the federal government to restrict political competition, stressing that Nigeria currently has multiple active political parties.
He argued that opposition parties were responsible for resolving their internal challenges instead of attributing their difficulties to the ruling party. According to him, the political space remains open and competitive.
Dare further stated that the federal government remains committed to protecting democratic freedoms, pointing out that citizens, including journalists and opposition members, freely express themselves without interference.
He added that the APC would not be responsible for the internal crises of other parties, noting that building a strong political platform requires discipline, structure, and long-term commitment.
He also emphasised that the emergence of a viable political party is a gradual process, citing the formation of the APC as an example of sustained political effort and organisation
