ADC Clutching at Straws Over Tinubu’s “Democracy Is a Game” Comment
The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has responded to criticism from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) over a recent remark by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu describing democracy as “a game.”
In a statement issued on Saturday, the party said it was both surprising and amusing that the ADC deliberately misinterpreted what it described as a simple metaphor highlighting the competitive nature of democratic politics.
According to the APC, democracy around the world operates through rules, strategy, participation, and healthy political competition. In that context, the party explained that describing democracy as a “game” merely emphasizes the need for political actors to organize, mobilize, and compete within established democratic frameworks.
The party accused the ADC of opting for sensationalism and distortion instead of engaging in meaningful political discourse, adding that such an approach appears to have become one of the party’s most visible political strategies.
APC further remarked that some leaders of the ADC often resort to “political theatrics” in an apparent attempt to gain public attention, citing instances where they stage photo opportunities on social media to portray closeness with ordinary citizens.
While such actions may generate momentary online buzz, the APC said they cannot substitute for credible leadership, genuine grassroots engagement, or strong political organization. It maintained that Nigerians are politically discerning and unlikely to be swayed by what it described as contrived performances.
The party also reiterated that the democratic credentials of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu are well established, noting his long-standing role in Nigeria’s democratic struggle and his advocacy for political pluralism and institutional development.
It described as ironic what it called attempts by a party with limited electoral presence to criticize a statesman whose political journey has significantly shaped Nigeria’s democratic evolution.
The APC advised the ADC to focus on building credible political structures and presenting meaningful alternatives to voters rather than creating controversy.
The statement reaffirmed the commitment of the APC to democratic competition, the rule of law, and respect for the will of the people.
The statement was signed by Mogaji (Hon.) Seye Oladejo, spokesman of the Lagos State APC, on March 14, 2026.
