Nigeria Needs Stronger Opposition, Says APC Stalwart Amid Atiku Critique

A prominent member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State, Dr. Celestine Chukwuneye, has denounced the approach taken by the presidential candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in the previous year’s elections, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, towards opposition politics.
Chukwuneye expressed in Lagos that Atiku’s actions primarily involve criticizing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration without providing substantiated evidence or proposing solutions. He emphasized that a constructive opposition should critique the government based on factual evidence and statistical data.
The APC leader deplored the absence of a robust opposition party or coalition of parties in Nigeria. He further stated, “We require a formidable opposition. It is essential for stimulating optimal government performance. I hope that the opposition will unify their efforts. In politics, unwarranted rivalry is unnecessary. I do not endorse such behavior. It should be about mutual respect.”

He urged the opposition to contribute to the nation’s advancement by acknowledging the government’s positive actions and highlighting, with concrete evidence and statistics, areas where it falls short. He remarked, “When the ruling party excels, it benefits the nation. The opposition may assume power in the future, as seen in 2015, and life will continue. Whether in power or in opposition, strive for the nation’s best interests.”
Regarding the recent meeting between the Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate for the 2023 general elections, Peter Obi, and Atiku, the medical professional remarked, “If the purpose is to merge, it is a commendable initiative. Let them amalgamate. It is advantageous for the nation. We should have two strong and reputable political parties in the country. The other parties can pursue their respective agendas.”
Chukwunenye also expressed discontent over the lack of unity among all political parties, deeming it detrimental to Nigeria’s fledgling democracy. He asserted, “All the parties are embroiled in turmoil. This is detrimental to the nation. They should prioritize delivering democratic dividends.”
He highlighted the plight of smaller political parties, noting their limited visibility. “They are seldom active, only emerging during election periods,”he added.
Chukwunenye advocated for amendments to the electoral laws, particularly regarding the minimum percentage required for a presidential candidate to win the election. He stated, “Our presidential system was modeled after that of the United States. However, in the US, no candidate wins the presidential election with less than 50% of the total votes. It is also unfavorable when one party secures 90% of the votes. This practice helps uphold democratic principles and mitigates divisive forces such as ethnicity and religion in our political landscape.”