All Progressives Congress has assured Nigerians that it will not undermine the conduct of free and fair elections during the 2027 general polls.
The party’s Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Duro Meseko, made the remark on Saturday during the Development and Cultural Day celebration held in Odo-Ape, Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi West Senatorial District.
Meseko also dismissed concerns about the emergence of a one-party state, saying the growing number of people joining the APC reflects public support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his Renewed Hope Agenda.
According to him, “Nigerian people have resolved to return President Tinubu for the success of his Renewed Hope Agenda, which is delivering good governance to the people. That is what Nigerians see and want—to re-elect President Tinubu and other candidates of the APC.”
He argued that claims suggesting the APC is imposing a one-party system are unfounded, noting that Nigeria still has 24 registered political parties.
The APC chieftain also praised the judiciary over its recent ruling concerning the African Democratic Congress, while advising the opposition party to resolve its internal disagreements.
“APC needs strong opposition and would not do anything to stampede free and fair elections,” Meseko said.
Speaking further on the cultural celebration, the former House of Representatives member described culture as a defining aspect of the people’s identity and stressed the need to preserve traditional values for future generations.
He explained that the event was organised to showcase the rich traditions and values of the Odo-Ape community to the wider world.
Meseko added that cultural festivals such as the Egungun masquerade festival help discourage misconduct within the community by publicly calling out individuals involved in unacceptable behaviour.
“You know what it means to let the world know that we are what we are because of our culture, and that is what we are celebrating. In Odo-Ape, we have the Owe festival. During this festival, it is mainly done at night, where people sing songs to prevent people from misbehaving.
“The community used to have a list of deviants. The folk songs are used to call them out so they feel ashamed of their misdeeds. The masquerades can foretell what will befall the community and provide solutions to it. These traditions are to guide our day-to-day living, and we are determined to pass them to the next generations,” he said.
