The Special Adviser to the President on Media and Communication, Sunday Dare, has dismissed claims that there are plans to restrict Nigeria’s 2027 general election ballot to only the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Speaking on Politics Today on Channels Television, Dare said Nigeria’s political space remains open and competitive.
His remarks come amid protests by the African Democratic Congress (ADC) following a decision by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to suspend recognition of the party’s leadership factions due to ongoing legal disputes.
INEC’s action, tied to a Court of Appeal ruling and internal conflicts within the party—including factions linked to David Mark—has sparked accusations from the ADC that it is being sidelined ahead of the 2027 elections.
Dare rejected those claims.
“There are about 20 political parties in Nigeria today. No one is stopping them from functioning,” he said.
“APC cannot shut down because other parties are struggling internally.”
He argued that the crisis within the ADC is self-inflicted, accusing opposition parties of relying on sentiment rather than building viable political structures.
Dare also defended the administration’s record on civil liberties, pointing to ongoing protests and media criticism as evidence of democratic freedom.
“Is it the duty of the President to organise the opposition?” he asked.
“Building a strong political party requires sacrifice and hard work.”