A political debate has emerged ahead of the 2027 general elections after President Bola Tinubu dismissed allegations that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is favouring the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
The President insisted that every political party has an equal opportunity to compete, while accusing opposition figures of creating unnecessary fears over the electoral process. His remarks came during a meeting with the leadership of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) at the State House in Abuja on Tuesday.
The statement has quickly drawn attention because opposition parties have repeatedly questioned the neutrality of INEC ahead of the next presidential election.
However, Tinubu maintained that the electoral body remains independent and fair.
Speaking during the meeting, the President said the concerns raised by some opposition politicians were misplaced.
“The opportunities are equal. INEC is neutral. They have never intimidated anyone. If political opponents are crying wolf, maybe they are afraid of their own shadows and uncertainty in the companies they keep, not me.”
Furthermore, the President used the meeting to reassure religious leaders about his administration’s commitment to national security. He said efforts are being intensified through better intelligence gathering, improved coordination and reforms within the country’s security agencies.
According to him, additional investments are also being made to strengthen the Armed Forces.
“We don’t have another country but here – this Nigeria. And I will refer to the national anthem that in our complexity and diversity, we shall thrive, live, rejoice and be good to all, and humanity,” he said.
He added:
“I have just approved the expansion of the armed forces. We are getting more equipment, building new barracks. We will defeat terrorism. It should be part of your sermons. I won’t deviate from our national anthem.”
Moreover, Tinubu addressed concerns about Nigeria’s economy, insisting that his administration inherited major financial challenges but has gradually restored stability.
He explained that difficult reforms were necessary to prevent economic collapse and place the country on a stronger path.
“I have listened to you carefully, and most importantly, your key areas are security and education. I can tell you categorically with sincerity that the country has been placed on a sound footing.”
He continued:
“The economy has recovered. The alarm for bankruptcy and dark tunnel of uncertainty that we had when I came in has been changed.”
According to the President, the country’s economic outlook is improving steadily.
“The spirit of the people is lifting, and the economic turmoil that we feared is cleared. The economy has been delivered from bankruptcy.”
He also stated:
“I always say, because of my background and profession, that I inherited the assets and liabilities of my predecessor. I have been running with it. This government has stabilised, and there is prosperity on the horizon. Life is improving.”
Meanwhile, the Catholic bishops urged the President to strengthen democratic institutions as Nigeria prepares for another election cycle.
CBCN President, Archbishop Matthew Ndagoso, praised Tinubu for receiving senior Vatican officials during their recent visit. However, he also encouraged the administration to focus on free and fair elections, improved security and better education.
The cleric further appealed for the return of mission schools and equal treatment of all religious groups across the country.
According to Ndagoso, protecting democratic institutions should remain one of Tinubu’s greatest achievements.
“As a man who risked so much in the struggle for the return of democratic rule in the dark days of the military dictatorship, your greatest legacy would be the strengthening of our democratic institutions.”
Furthermore, the meeting was attended by several senior Catholic leaders, including Archbishop Ignatius Kaigama, Bishop Matthew Kukah, Archbishop Alfred Martins and other church officials from different parts of Nigeria.
