Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila
Chief of Staff to President Bola Tinubu, Femi Gbajabiamila, has welcomed the formation of an opposition coalition around the African Democratic Congress (ADC), describing it as a positive development for Nigeria’s democracy.
He made this statement on Saturday while monitoring the Local Government Area Councilorship and Chairmanship election in Surulere, Lagos State.
*A functioning democracy needs opposition*
“A functioning democracy must accommodate opposition voices to prevent the risk of reverting to a one-party system,” Gbajabiamila said.
“The strength of any democracy lies in vibrant and credible opposition that can hold the ruling party accountable.”
He emphasized the importance of checks and balances in governance, warning that without them, democracy could easily slip into authoritarianism.
*Skepticism about the coalition’s future*
However, Gbajabiamila expressed doubts about the effectiveness and future of the coalition, saying, “I’m not sure where it will go — that is, if it will go anywhere.”
Despite his reservations, he stressed the importance of alternative voices in the political space for national progress and political maturity.
Gbajabiamila commended the peaceful conduct of the local government elections in Surulere and encouraged Nigerians to participate actively in the democratic process.
“Grassroots elections are key to good governance at the local level,” he said.
“I urge all political actors to place national interest above personal ambition and promote unity, regardless of party affiliations.”
