Opposition should stop blaming Tinubu for defections – APC chieftain

By Deborah Oladejo, Osogbo

A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State, Hon. Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, has urged opposition parties to stop blaming President Bola Tinubu for the recent wave of defections to the ruling party.

Speaking with journalists on Sunday in Osogbo, Oyintiloye said opposition members should focus on resolving internal issues rather than pointing fingers at the president. He described political realignments as a normal feature of Nigeria’s democracy.

He noted that many of those defecting had complained of being sidelined or unfairly treated in their former parties, and were seeking platforms with better opportunities and clearer agendas, such as the APC’s “Renewed Hope” initiative.

Oyintiloye maintained that defections are driven by ideological alignment and frustration with internal wrangling in opposition parties, not any form of coercion by the ruling party or the president.

He said the recent defections highlight the appeal of Tinubu’s administration and its focus on national development and inclusive governance. According to him, the APC is increasingly seen as a viable platform for transformation.

Predicting more defections from opposition parties, especially the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Oyintiloye advised them to embrace internal democracy, transparent primaries, and inclusive decision-making to retain members.

He dismissed fears that the defections could lead to a one-party system, pointing out that with over 60 registered political parties in Nigeria, the political space remains competitive and diverse.

Oyintiloye also urged the APC to manage defections carefully by protecting loyal members who have built the party over the years and ensuring that internal cohesion is not threatened.