The Special Adviser to the President on Media and Communications, Sunday Dare, has dismissed concerns that Nigeria is drifting toward a one-party state, describing the ongoing crisis in the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as self-inflicted and a “classic example of how not to run an opposition.”
Speaking during an interview on Channels Television, Dare said the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) had no interest in undermining opposition parties, emphasising that President Bola Tinubu is focused on governance rather than partisan battles.
According to Dare, the ADC’s internal issues stem from attempts to seize control without following due process, rather than building a political structure organically. He criticised opposition figures for bypassing courts and hiring foreign lobby firms to protest, saying these actions caused the party’s current instability.
“APC is not afraid of any opposition. The President has a legitimate mandate and is focused on national affairs,” Dare said, reassuring that democratic freedoms remain intact. He noted that opposition parties can field candidates, protest, and criticise the government freely, highlighting that Nigeria still maintains a vibrant democratic space.
Dare also affirmed press freedom under the Tinubu administration, stating that journalists would be protected in carrying out their professional duties.
On security concerns, Dare explained that President Tinubu’s absence from a Lagos projects inauguration was due to monitoring escalating attacks in Plateau, Kaduna, and Niger states. He highlighted ongoing counter-terrorism efforts, including the neutralisation of 67 top terrorist leaders and prosecution of over 500 suspects, with commendations from the United States and the United Kingdom for Nigeria’s operations.
The adviser warned that insecurity predates the current administration and stressed that recent attacks are concentrated in the North-Central region due to successful military campaigns in other parts of the country. He also defended the President’s engagement with victims of the Palm Sunday killings in Plateau State, stating it was focused on results, not symbolism.
