President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has assured Nigerians that their right to speak freely remains protected, no matter how harsh their words.
During his Democracy Day speech at the National Assembly in Abuja on Thursday, Tinubu strongly backed freedom of expression in Nigeria, stating that even personal insults directed at him would not stop him from defending citizens’ rights.
“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,” he declared firmly.
This bold statement came as part of his wider message urging tolerance, transparency, and open dialogue.
According to Tinubu, democratic values thrive only when people can express themselves without fear.
He encouraged Nigerians to speak up even if it means criticizing him.
“Do not be afraid to hear an unkind word spoken against you,” Tinubu said, addressing public officers and security agencies.
“Some of the best advice a politician gets sometimes comes from his most ferocious opponents, if they think well, though.”
Moreover, the president made it clear that security agencies must not harass or punish citizens for expressing their views.
He warned against using power to suppress the voices of ordinary people.
“We do not seek silence because the imposed silence of repressed voices breeds chaos and ill will, not the harmonics of democracy in the long term,” he added.
In addition, Tinubu called on lawmakers to be more tolerant in their legislative decisions.
He emphasized the importance of building a society where civil liberties are respected above political power.
“We must always value dialogue over dictatorship, persuasion over suppression and rights over might,” Tinubu said.
“Be tolerant and broad-minded in your legislative action regarding speech and civil liberties.”
The president also acknowledged that Nigeria, while imperfect, remains a strong and hopeful nation.
He believes the country’s democracy is still the best hope for progress and unity.
“Our nation is not perfect, but it is strong. Our democracy is not invincible, but it is alive,” he stated. “And this means our dream of a prosperous, happy nation is still within reach and worth fighting for.”
