Akume Denies Plans to Establish Single-Party System

The administration of President Bola Tinubu has no intention of promoting a one-party state, according to Senator George Akume, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, who emphasized the government's commitment to upholding democratic principles and fostering a multi-party system.

n

Senator Akume's assurance was conveyed through a statement issued by his media aide, Yomi Odunuga, on Wednesday, which reiterated the government's respect for the independence of the Independent National Electoral Commission.

n

The statement quoted Senator Akume as saying that the Tinubu administration is dedicated to ensuring the independence of the electoral commission, in line with the principles of true democracy, and that it does not support the idea of a one-party state.

n

Nigeria's democratic system, Senator Akume noted, guarantees genuine political competition, lawful opposition, and citizens' rights to participate freely in the democratic process, with the registration of 21 political parties by the Independent National Electoral Commission serving as evidence of the country's commitment to political pluralism.

n

Senator Akume further assured that the Tinubu administration will continue to respect the autonomy of the Independent National Electoral Commission and provide it with the necessary resources to carry out its responsibilities, while also maintaining that security agencies have conducted themselves professionally during elections.

n

The government, according to Senator Akume, remains committed to upholding the rule of law and protecting the rights of all Nigerians, regardless of their religious, ethnic, or political affiliations.

n

Senator Akume emphasized the importance of collaboration between the government and various stakeholders, including faith-based organizations, in promoting national development and addressing the country's challenges.

n

The government, he noted, values the contributions of faith communities, traditional institutions, and civil society organizations in promoting peace, social cohesion, and national development, and will continue to engage with these institutions to advance the national interest.

n

Senator Akume stated that the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation will maintain ongoing consultations with the leadership of the Catholic Bishops Conference and other stakeholders to address issues of mutual concern.

n

The Federal Government, according to Senator Akume, has taken note of public reactions to the recent meeting between President Tinubu and the Catholic Bishops, and wishes to reaffirm its respect for the Catholic Church and its contributions to Nigeria's development.

n

The discussions between President Tinubu and the Catholic Bishops, Senator Akume explained, were open and respectful, covering a range of topics including security, economic hardship, and electoral credibility.

n

Both parties, Senator Akume noted, acknowledged the progress made by the administration in areas such as education and security, while also recognizing the need for continued collaboration to address the country's challenges.

n

Senator Akume's remarks come in response to public reactions following the meeting between President Tinubu and the Catholic Bishops, where issues of political pluralism, electoral credibility, and religious freedom were reportedly discussed.