If APC Is Confident, It Won’t Be Hounding and Haunting Opposition Members - Aregbesola

By Morris Nor// A former Governor of Osun State and the current National Secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, has accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of displaying intolerance toward opposition voices in the country.

According to a report by the Punch Newspaper on Saturday, October 18, 2025, Aregbesola alleged that the APC has resorted to using state machinery to intimidate and silence individuals and political groups who hold differing opinions from the ruling establishment.

Aregbesola expressed disappointment over what he described as the party’s growing inability to accommodate dissenting views. He argued that the ruling party, once known for its democratic ideals, has now turned into a platform intolerant of criticism.

The former governor stated that such behavior is not only undemocratic but also harmful to the country’s political development and unity. He maintained that the beauty of democracy lies in its openness to multiple opinions and political competition, emphasizing that no party should consider itself above criticism.

Aregbesola noted that if the APC were truly confident in its popularity and strength, it would not feel the need to “hound and haunt” opposition members across the country. Instead, he said, the party should focus on governance and the welfare of citizens rather than using power to suppress dissent.

The former governor further pointed out that intimidation of opposition voices is a sign of weakness and fear rather than strength. He cautioned that the continued use of state resources to target political opponents could damage Nigeria’s democratic image and alienate the public.

Aregbesola urged the APC leadership and other political actors to embrace dialogue, tolerance, and respect for divergent opinions as essential components of democratic governance. He concluded by calling for a renewed commitment to the principles of fairness, accountability, and freedom of expression, noting that only through genuine political inclusivity can Nigeria’s democracy thrive and command the confidence of its people.

He said: “If the APC is confident of its strength, it would not be hounding and haunting opposition members everywhere.”