Former Senate President Bukola Saraki has responded to President Bola Tinubu’s remarks about the internal struggles within Nigeria’s opposition parties, particularly the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
On Thursday, June 12, during the Democracy Day celebration at the National Assembly, President Tinubu commented on the divisions within the opposition, describing it as “a pleasure” to see them “in disarray.” He also made it clear that he had no intention of helping them resolve their issues, stating, “I will not help you to do so, either.”
Tinubu further dismissed claims that his administration was working to establish a one-party state amid a wave of defections from opposition parties to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
In response, Saraki acknowledged the PDP’s internal challenges but urged party members and other opposition groups to take responsibility for rebuilding. Speaking to journalists after the ceremony, Saraki said:
“I think we must take him at his words. He made it clear he’s not for a one-party state, so we should accept that he supports a multi-party system. We are all on the same page.”
He added, “That’s why we are reaching out and bringing everyone together. Those who say they’re under pressure should know there’s no pressure anymore. We all support a multi-party democracy, and everyone needs to get their house in order. Since he won’t help us, we will sort things out ourselves.”
