Former Governor of Osun State, Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola, has raised serious allegations against President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, claiming that the president is mounting pressure on lawmakers to defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC) with the intent of securing a two-thirds majority in the National Assembly. According to Oyinlola, the ultimate goal is to pass legislation that would pave the way for President Tinubu to remain in power for life—bypassing Nigeria's constitutional electoral process.
The startling allegation was made during a press briefing held on behalf of the Coalition for ADC (African Democratic Congress), a group positioning itself as a watchdog against what it described as an "unfolding democratic subversion."
"President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu is pressurizing National Assembly Members to decamp to APC so that APC will have two-thirds of NASS and then pass a law that will make him a life President without election," Oyinlola stated.
The Nigerian Constitution clearly sets a two-term limit for the presidency and any attempt to alter this would require a constitutional amendment, which demands a two-thirds majority vote in both chambers of the National Assembly, followed by approval from two-thirds of state legislatures.
Observers note that such a move would be politically explosive and constitutionally controversial, likely triggering nationwide protests and international scrutiny.
As of the time of this report, the Presidency and APC leadership have not officially responded to the allegations. However, multiple APC insiders have dismissed the claims as “baseless political propaganda” designed to stir unrest.
A senior aide to a leading APC senator, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said:
“This is pure fiction. President Tinubu is focused on economic reforms and national security, not on staying in power for life.”
The allegations have reignited debates over political defection, executive overreach, and the health of Nigeria’s democracy. Civil society groups and opposition parties are reportedly convening emergency meetings to address the matter.
Meanwhile, the Coalition for ADC has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), and the international community to closely monitor the unfolding situation.
“This is not just about one man—this is about the future of Nigeria’s democracy,” Oyinlola added.
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