From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
Nasarawa State Governor Abdullahi Sule has rejected concerns that Nigeria is drifting toward a one-party state, asserting that the All Progressives Congress (APC) is gaining traction due to its performance and President Bola Tinubu’s reform agenda, not coercion.
Speaking to State House Correspondents after meeting Tinubu, Sule said, “There is no way we can be a one-party state. No matter what happens, there are people who are going to be in another party. We don’t even want Nigeria to be a one-party state, we just want to be the dominant party.”
Sule attributed the APC’s growing appeal to reforms in exchange rate unification, fuel subsidy removal, power sector changes, and initiatives in skill acquisition and agriculture. He denied claims of pressure on defectors, stating, “It’s a reflection of the performance of our party and Mr. President. Those returning to the APC or defecting are inspired by the administration’s direction and achievements.”
Comparing Nigeria to the US, where Democrats and Republicans dominate alongside smaller parties, he quipped, “We just want to be the party that wins 90% of the votes. The other parties can have 10%,” clarifying his sincerity.
On Nasarawa’s industrial progress, Sule noted the state’s lithium battery production, noting a recently commissioned facility with a 3-million-metric-tonne annual capacity. “The next one, three times larger, will be commissioned within two months, with three more in the pipeline by year-end,” he said.
He credited Nasarawa’s peaceful environment and its status as a mining and renewable energy hub, adding, “We have the highest number of mini-grids due to small-scale agriculture and mining operations needing dedicated power.”
Sule said his visit addressed state and party matters, noting Tinubu’s dual role as party leader and president. He also celebrated Nasarawa’s national recognition for achievements in agriculture and renewable energy, stating, “These are progress stories we are proud to share with Mr. President.”