President Bola Tinubu has dismissed allegations that he is “killing” the political opposition in Nigeria, using a touch of humor to address the claims during an interfaith Iftar (breaking of fast) with senators at the Presidential Villa

The President’s comments come amid a wave of high-profile defections from opposition parties—including the PDP and LP—to the ruling APC, and following recent reports of violence targeting opposition figures in Edo State.

The “No Gun” Defense: Tinubu poked fun at the idea that he was physically or forcefully eliminating the opposition, stating: “Critics must talk; when they accused me of killing the opposition, I didn’t have a gun. I could have given myself a license when I have the authority.”

The “Sinking Ship” Metaphor: Addressing the mass defections to the APC, he remarked that he couldn’t blame anyone for “jumping out of a sinking ship,” suggesting that the internal crises within opposition parties, rather than executive pressure, are driving members away.

Call for Unity: He urged political leaders to move past conflict and focus on the vision of Nigeria’s founding fathers, emphasizing that constitutional democracy is meant for cooperation, not constant fighting.

The President’s remarks weren’t made in a vacuum. Several major events have recently fueled the “stifling opposition” narrative:

1. Attack in Edo State: Just days ago, a gun attack targeted a gathering in Edo involving Peter Obi and Chief John Odigie-Oyegun. While the state government denied involvement, opposition groups like the Obidient Movement and the ADC have called it an act of “political terror.”
2. The Electoral Act 2026: Tinubu recently signed an amendment to the Electoral Act, which the PDP and other critics claim “legalizes electoral manipulation” ahead of the 2027 general elections.
3. The “State Police” Push: During the same Iftar, Tinubu formally asked the Senate to fast-track constitutional amendments for State Police, arguing it is the only way to reclaim forests from “marauders” and secure the country.

Note: While the President maintains he is a “reformist” working in harmony with the legislature, the opposition remains highly skeptical, especially following the controversial FCT local polls and the ongoing debate over the electronic transmission of results.