Paul Ibe, the spokesperson for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and 2023 presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar, has leveled serious allegations against President Bola Tinubu, claiming he is attempting to dismantle the Labour Party and the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) in a bid to establish a dictatorship.
Ibe asserted that Tinubu’s ultimate goal is to create a one-party system by the year 2027, hence his actions against the opposition parties.
He criticized the president for focusing on strategies to regain power in 2027 while neglecting the hardships faced by Nigerians.
In an interview, Ibe refuted suggestions that Atiku is self-serving, emphasizing that the former Vice President’s decision to run for office is rooted in patriotism.
“Choosing to run is not an act of selfishness; it’s an expression of patriotism,” he stated.
Ibe noted, “Atiku has always been about service. He successfully won the PDP primary, and it was anticipated that every party member, including Wike—who has now aligned himself with the APC—would not contribute to undermining the very foundation of the PDP and other opposition parties. That is true selfishness. Atiku has never been selfish; he is dedicated to Nigeria’s progress.”
He highlighted the pressing issues currently facing Nigerians, stating, “Our priority should be the welfare of the people. We must stabilize the country before indulging in future ambitions.”
Ibe criticized the focus on the 2027 elections, calling it “insensitive,” and accused Tinubu of neglecting governance in favor of schemes to suppress opposing parties.
He stated, “The administration’s focus appears to be on dismantling the PDP, Labour Party, and NNPP, paving the way for a dictatorship and a one-party state. This is why they continue to struggle with effective governance.”
He concluded by acknowledging that while the PDP, like the APC, has its own challenges, he believes Tinubu’s strategy is clearly aimed at undermining and dismantling opposition parties.