President Bola Tinubu has described Nigeria's opposition parties and coalition movements as "dead," stating that only "empty vessels" remain in the opposition camp.

Speaking at the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Summit themed "Renewed Hope Agenda: The Journey So Far" on Thursday, Tinubu expressed optimism about welcoming more defectors to the ruling party.

"As many as are willing to join the APC fold are most welcome to the party," the President declared, citing Section 41(1) of the 1999 Constitution which protects freedom of movement as justification for the recent wave of political defections.

Tinubu's comments come in the wake of significant defections from the main opposition People's Democratic Party (PDP). In April 2025, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, and other prominent PDP officials crossed over to the APC, dealing a blow to the opposition's strength.

During the same event, all 22 governors under the Progressives Governors' Forum (PGF) passed a vote of confidence in President Tinubu, further solidifying his position as the party's leader.

The President's remarks signal growing confidence within the APC as the party continues to strengthen its position ahead of future electoral contests, while simultaneously highlighting the challenges facing opposition parties in maintaining their relevance and membership base.