President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has affirmed that no Nigerian should face injustice simply for expressing dissent or criticizing him or other public officials.
Speaking during a joint session of the National Assembly on June 12 to mark Democracy Day, Tinubu urged lawmakers to uphold civil liberties and protect freedom of expression as essential pillars of democracy.
“Be tolerant and broad-minded in your legislative actions regarding speech and civil liberties,” he said. “Do not fear criticism. Some of the most valuable advice a politician can receive comes from their fiercest critics.”
He warned against suppressing dissenting voices, noting that silencing opposition breeds instability rather than harmony.
“We dare not seek silence, for the imposed silence of repressed voices breeds chaos and ill will—not the harmony democracy needs to thrive.”
While acknowledging that slander and libel should not go unchecked, Tinubu emphasized that basic criticism or unfavorable reporting should not result in persecution.
“No one should suffer injustice for merely writing a negative report about me or calling me names,” he said. “Democracy requires a fair degree of tolerance for harsh words and biting insults. Call me names, call me whatever you will, and I will still call upon democracy to defend your right to do so.”
Closing his address, Tinubu reflected on the resilience of Nigeria’s democratic journey:
“Our nation is not perfect, but it is strong. Our democracy is not invincible, but it is alive. And this means our dream of a prosperous, happy nation remains within reach—and it is worth fighting for.”
