Rufai Oseni criticises APC for alleged harassment of opposition on Arise TV

Arise News anchor Rufai Oseni used Wednesday’s edition of Arise Television’s “Morning Show” to launch a pointed critique of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Oseni argued that the party’s recent pattern of attacking and harassing opposition voices poses a danger to Nigeria’s democratic system.

During the broadcast, Oseni recalled the period when the APC was itself in opposition to former President Goodluck Jonathan. He noted that Jonathan allowed APC leaders to insult him, call for protests, demand a parallel government and even demand his resignation, yet he never resorted to arrest or suppression. Osendi asked rhetorically whether the APC would still be in power today if Jonathan had treated them harshly, suggesting that the current climate of intimidation is a departure from that earlier tolerance.

Oseni warned that continued hostility toward dissenting politicians could push Nigeria toward a one‑party state and potentially spark anarchy. He urged the APC to tolerate criticism and focus on governance rather than targeting those who disagree with it.

Background

The All Progressives Congress, Nigeria’s ruling party, rose to power after the 2015 elections, ending the long‑standing dominance of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). During the preceding years, the APC operated as an opposition force under President Goodluck Jonathan, who served from 2010 to 2015. According to Oseni’s remarks, Jonathan’s administration permitted the APC to voice strong criticism, organise protests and even call for his resignation without resorting to punitive measures.

Since assuming office, the APC has faced accusations from various quarters of using state mechanisms to silence critics, a claim highlighted by Oseni’s comments on Arise TV. The broadcaster’s criticism reflects broader concerns expressed by opposition figures and civil‑society groups about perceived erosion of democratic space in Nigeria.

Why it matters

Oseni’s statements underscore tensions between the ruling party and opposition actors, a dynamic that can affect political stability and public confidence in democratic institutions. If the APC’s alleged actions are perceived as suppressing dissent, it may alienate segments of the electorate and invite domestic and international scrutiny.

The anchor’s warning about a potential slide toward a one‑party state resonates with observers who monitor Nigeria’s democratic health. The contrast drawn with Jonathan’s approach serves to highlight perceived inconsistencies in the APC’s treatment of political opposition, potentially influencing public discourse and prompting calls for greater political tolerance.

What happens next

Oseni concluded by urging the APC to shift its focus from confronting critics to delivering effective governance. No specific legislative or judicial actions were mentioned in the source, and the broadcast did not outline any formal complaints or investigations. The anchor’s remarks may prompt further commentary from political leaders, civil‑society organisations and media outlets as the debate over political freedom continues.