The Presidency has strongly criticized former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and the PDP for spreading false claims that President Bola Tinubu intends to establish a one-party state in Nigeria.
In a statement released by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the presidency accused the Peoples Democratic Party and Atiku Abubakar’s spokesperson of assaulting the integrity of the judiciary and making unfounded allegations against Tinubu.
Onanuga asserted that, following the unfavorable outcomes for some elected governors of the PDP at the appeal court, Atiku and his party became overly desperate, attempting to shift blame onto Tinubu and the judiciary, an essential arm of the Nigerian government.
While emphasizing that they do not speak for the judiciary, the presidency urged Nigerians to dismiss the malicious allegations made by the PDP and its candidate.
It refuted claims that President Tinubu, as the former governor of Lagos, silenced the opposition, corrupted the judiciary, and is planning to impose a one-party state.
Onanuga emphasized President Tinubu’s commitment to democracy and highlighted instances where the judiciary ruled against the APC under his watch, showcasing his respect for the rule of law.
He denounced the allegations as baseless and aimed at needlessly stirring up tensions in the country.
The Special Adviser further pointed out the contrast between Atiku and Tinubu’s records, emphasizing Tinubu’s acknowledgment as a democrat and a strong advocate for the rule of law.
Onanuga urged Atiku and the PDP to halt their campaign of calumny against the judiciary and accused them of being selective in their criticism, celebrating court decisions in their favor but condemning those that go against them.
He concluded by calling on Atiku and the PDP to stop their unwarranted attacks on the judiciary and respect the legal process, emphasizing that judgments are based on law and evidence, not sentiments or emotions.
