A wave of defections to the All Progressives Congress in Nigeria has sparked intense debate, with many prominent politicians joining the party. Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa attributes this trend to the performance of President Bola Tinubu, citing reforms in key sectors as a major draw. The ruling party has welcomed several high-profile defectors, including the governor of Delta State and former vice-presidential candidates of the People’s Democratic Party.

The defections have raised concerns about the potential for a one-party system, with some accusing the Tinubu administration of attempting to consolidate power. However, Governor Sule dismisses these allegations, stating that people are joining the party because they are satisfied with its performance. “People who are happy with what they are seeing, they are the people who are returning to the party,” he said in an interview.

According to Governor Sule, the party’s reforms in areas such as exchange rates, fuel subsidies, and the power sector have been particularly impressive. He also highlighted the focus on skill acquisition and agriculture as key areas where the party is making a positive impact. “It’s a reflection of the performance of our party and the performance of Mr. President,” he added.

Governor Sule denied allegations of attempting to create a one-party state, emphasizing that the party’s goal is to be dominant, not exclusive. “There is no way we can be a one-party state. No matter what happens, there are people who are going to be in another party,” he said. He noted that all political parties aspire to be dominant and win elections, but this does not mean that other parties cannot exist or participate in the democratic process.

Drawing a comparison with the United States, where the Democratic and Republican parties dominate but minor parties still exist, Governor Sule expressed his party’s desire to win a significant majority of votes. “We just want to be the party that wins 90 per cent of the votes. The other parties can have 10 per cent,” he said. Ultimately, Governor Sule believes that every party wants to give back to society, and he thinks that the All Progressives Congress is doing just that.