President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to protecting the democratic rights of Nigerians, particularly the freedom of expression, stressing that criticism of government policies, even if harsh, should not attract harassment or persecution.
Speaking during his address at the National Assembly Complex in Abuja as part of the 2025 Democracy Day celebrations, the President advised Nigeria’s security institutions to exercise restraint when dealing with dissenting voices, noting that freedom of speech remains a cornerstone of any thriving democracy.
“Do not be afraid to hear an unkind word spoken against you,” the President said, while addressing lawmakers, members of the executive, and the public gathered to mark the 26th year of uninterrupted civilian rule in the country. He acknowledged that in democratic governance, open dialogue and criticism—even from political opponents—are essential for growth and accountability.
“Some of the best advice a politician receives often comes from his most ferocious opponents, if they are thinking clearly,” Tinubu remarked. He further warned against suppressing opposing views, arguing that repression only fuels bitterness and instability in the long term. “We do not seek silence, because the imposed silence of repressed voices breeds chaos and ill will, not the harmonics of democracy over time,” he added.
In a striking affirmation of democratic principles, Tinubu maintained that while falsehoods, slander, and defamation should be handled within the bounds of the law, citizens must not suffer injustice for expressing dissent or criticising the presidency. “No one should bear the brunt of injustice for merely writing a bad report about me or calling me names,” he said. “Call me any names. I’m not here to make you happy politically, and I will still call upon democracy to defend your right to do so.”
The President’s statement comes at a time when concerns have been raised by civil society groups and media watchdogs about shrinking civic spaces and increasing intolerance of opposing views. By restating his commitment to upholding civil liberties, Tinubu aims to reassure Nigerians that democratic ideals will not be sacrificed under his leadership.
He also used the occasion to urge lawmakers, political appointees, and supporters of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to embrace a culture of tolerance and constructive engagement. “We must always value dialogue over dictatorship, persuasion over suppression, and rights over might. Be tolerant and broad-minded in your legislative action regarding speech and civil liberties,” he said.
Tinubu’s Democracy Day speech reflects a broader national conversation about balancing governance with individual freedoms, and his remarks are expected to shape future debates around policy-making, civil rights, and democratic accountability.
