Paul Ibe, the spokesperson for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the 2023 presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar, has accused President Bola Tinubu of attempting to impose a dictatorship by targeting the destruction of the PDP, the Labour Party (LP), and the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP).
Ibe claims that Tinubu is working toward establishing a one-party state by weakening and dismantling opposition parties in the lead-up to the 2027 elections. According to Ibe, the president is preoccupied with his political future, neglecting the current challenges and suffering faced by Nigerians.
In an interview with News Central TV, Ibe rejected suggestions that Atiku’s decision to run for president was motivated by selfishness, instead emphasizing that it was an act of patriotism. He argued that Atiku, having won the PDP’s primary election, did not act out of selfish interest but out of a deep commitment to Nigeria’s progress. Ibe contrasted Atiku’s dedication to national development with what he described as the selfish actions of those in power, particularly in reference to Nyesom Wike, who Ibe claims is now aligned with the ruling APC and contributing to the weakening of the PDP and other opposition parties.
Ibe stressed that the primary focus should be on addressing the suffering of Nigerians, rather than on the political ambitions of individuals. He called it “insensitive” for Tinubu to be focusing on the 2027 elections while the country faces significant challenges.
According to Ibe, the president’s true agenda is not about governance but about systematically eroding the opposition parties. He accused Tinubu of working to suppress the PDP, LP, and NNPP, aiming to consolidate power and pave the way for a dictatorship and a one-party state. This strategy, Ibe contended, is the reason why Tinubu’s administration continues to falter in governance.
Ibe acknowledged that both the PDP and the ruling APC face internal issues but reiterated that the key to Tinubu’s administration is its deliberate efforts to undermine opposition forces.
