Tinubu's Government Supports Multi-Party System, Akume

Senator George Akume, who is the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, has told Nigerians that President Bola Tinubu's government is not chasing a one-party state. He emphasized that the government is committed to political diversity and fair competition in democracy.

Akume added that Tinubu’s administration will keep talking with the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria, other religious groups, and important stakeholders on matters affecting the country.

In a statement released on Wednesday by Akume’s media aide, Yomi Odunuga, the government showed deep respect for the independence of the Independent National Electoral Commission. This is in line with the principles of true democracy.

“The Tinubu administration is neither seeking nor in support of a one-party state, just as it remains deeply respectful of the independence of the Independent National Electoral Commission, in the spirit of true democracy,” the statement said.

Akume highlighted that Nigeria’s democratic system allows for real political competition, lawful opposition, multi-party democracy, credible elections, and citizens’ rights to freely take part in the democratic process. He pointed to the registration of 21 political parties by INEC as proof of political diversity in the country.

He insisted that the Federal Government does not want or support a one-party state. The SGF also assured that the Tinubu administration would “continue to respect the legal autonomy of INEC and provide all resources lawfully appropriated for the commission’s responsibilities.” He added that security agencies have acted professionally during elections, with international observers watching.

Akume restated the government’s commitment to constitutional democracy. He said the administration is dedicated to “the rule of law and equal rights for all Nigerians irrespective of religion, ethnicity or political affiliation.”

He mentioned that the Federal Government is open to sincere advice from respected national institutions. He said, “No responsible government should ignore the concerns of its people.”

The government is also maintaining talks and preventing conflict through the Nigeria Inter-Religious Council (NIREC). Akume described working with religious bodies as essential for the national interest.

He stated, “Many of the challenges confronting our nation require partnership. Faith communities, traditional institutions, civil society, the private sector and citizens all have important roles to play in promoting peace, strengthening social cohesion and advancing national development. Constructive engagement between Government and these institutions is therefore not only welcome but essential.”

Akume added that the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation will keep consulting with the leadership of the Catholic Bishops Conference, other faith-based organizations, and relevant stakeholders. This will focus on issues raised during meetings and areas where more collaboration is needed for national interest.

He noted that the Federal Government is aware of public feedback following the meeting between Tinubu and the Catholic Bishops. He reaffirmed respect for the Catholic Church and its lasting contributions to Nigeria’s development in education, healthcare, humanitarian services, peacebuilding, and moral guidance.

He explained that the talks between the President and the Bishops were open, respectful, and productive. They discussed issues like security, economic hardship, public services, education, electoral credibility, political pluralism, and religious freedom.

According to him, both sides recognized progress made under the government. This includes the student loan program and recent successes by security agencies in rescuing kidnapped schoolchildren and teachers.

Akume pointed out that while there were areas of agreement and differences in views, these differences should not be seen as a lack of mutual respect or lessen the shared commitment to Nigeria’s peace, unity, and progress.

His comments come as the public reacts to a recent meeting between President Tinubu and the leaders of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria. They reportedly discussed issues of political pluralism, electoral credibility, and religious freedom.