Akpabio Claims Tinubu Concerned Over Disarray in Opposition Parties

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has asserted that President Bola Tinubu is concerned about the internal conflicts plaguing opposition parties, particularly the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and the Labour Party (LP). Akpabio urged these parties to resolve their issues, stating that a strong opposition is vital for a healthy democracy.

Akpabio's Statement at Abuja Event

Akpabio made these remarks on Wednesday, June 25, 2025, during the inauguration of the Arterial Road N20 Interchange Bridges in Abuja. He highlighted recent events, including the PDP's leadership struggles concerning the National Secretary position and Senator Neda Imasuen's defection from the Labour Party to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), as indicators of the opposition's instability.

According to Akpabio, these developments have caused President Tinubu unease, as the President desires a thriving opposition. "However you people got yourself into this confusion, try and get yourself out of it very quickly. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR is interested in seeing a vibrant opposition. As a true democrat, we would like to see a very vibrant opposition in the country. It saddens him when he sees the way the opposition in Nigeria is in disarray," Akpabio stated.

Labour Party Also Facing Internal Strife

Akpabio further claimed that the Labour Party is also experiencing internal divisions. "Just before I came here to represent him (Tinubu), I received and read a letter from the Labour Party. So it’s not only PDP that is in disarray. Even the Labour Party is cracked. And people who are strong members of the Labour Party are angling to run Nigeria when they cannot put a small political party like that in order.”

APC Open to Defectors

Despite the President's purported concern, Akpabio reiterated that the APC remains open to receiving members from other parties. He highlighted the recent defection of Senator Neda Imasuen, representing Edo South senatorial district, from the Labour Party to the APC. Imasuen also chairs the Senate Committee on Ethics, Code of Conduct, and Public Petitions.

"Senator Neda Imasuen just decamped this afternoon from the Labour Party and moved from the left-hand side of the Senate to the right-hand side... I’m not tired. I’m happy to receive them because our doors are open in the All Progressive Congress. So congratulations to Imasuen, who has decided to leave the fractured Labour Party to join the APC,” Akpabio stated.

Historical Context and Analysis

Nigeria's political landscape has historically been characterized by shifting alliances and party realignments. The current situation reflects a continuation of this trend, with the ruling party often attracting members from weaker opposition parties. This pattern can weaken the opposition's ability to effectively challenge the government and hold it accountable.

Expert Opinion

Dr. Adebayo Williams, a political analyst at the Institute for Governance and Policy Studies, commented on the situation: "The defection of opposition members to the ruling party is not a new phenomenon in Nigerian politics. It often stems from a combination of factors, including perceived opportunities for political advancement, internal conflicts within opposition parties, and the allure of being in the ruling party. While a strong opposition is crucial for democracy, the current trend raises concerns about the long-term health and competitiveness of the political system."

The Importance of a Strong Opposition

A robust opposition plays a critical role in a democratic system by providing alternative policy perspectives, holding the government accountable, and ensuring that diverse voices are represented. A weakened opposition can lead to reduced scrutiny of government actions and policies, potentially undermining democratic principles.

Implications for 2027 Elections

The disarray within the PDP and Labour Party raises questions about their ability to effectively challenge the APC in the upcoming 2027 elections. Unless these parties can resolve their internal conflicts and present a united front, the APC may maintain its dominance in Nigerian politics.