Tinubu addressing the National Assembly

 President Bola Tinubu on Thursday said he takes delight in witnessing the internal crises rocking opposition parties and has no plans to help them stabilise.

Speaking during his State of the Nation address at a joint session of the National Assembly to mark Democracy Day, the president responded to concerns about recent defections into the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

“Political parties fearful of members leaving may be better served by examining their internal processes… I will not help you do so. “It is, indeed, a pleasure to witness you in such disarray,” Tinubu said.

Dismissing fears of Nigeria becoming a one-party state, Tinubu said his administration respects political diversity and welcomes competition.

“A one-party state is not in the offing. Nor should it ever be. That said, we would be guilty of political malpractice if we closed the door on those from other parties who now seek to join the APC,” he added.

He acknowledged the defections of top opposition figures, including Governor Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta) and Pastor Umo Eno (Akwa Ibom), stating that the APC will continue to embrace political converts.

The president stressed that the goal is not to eliminate opposition but to strengthen democracy through cross-party cooperation.

Meanwhile, Tinubu also announced national honours for over 50 individuals who contributed to Nigeria’s democratic journey. Posthumous honours were conferred on Kudirat Abiola, Shehu Musa Yar’Adua, Ken Saro-Wiwa, and members of the Ogoni Nine.

“I shall also be exercising my powers under the prerogative of mercy to grant these national heroes a full pardon,” he stated.

The address was part of events marking 25 years of uninterrupted democratic rule in Nigeria.