President Bola Tinubu has told security agencies not to harass Nigerians for speaking against his government, Tinubu said a true democracy must allow free speech, even when it is uncomfortable. He made this clear during his Democracy Day address at the National Assembly Complex in Abuja.
The president stressed that criticism should not be punished in a free society. He said, “Do not be afraid to hear an unkind word spoken against you.” He urged lawmakers and public officials to embrace dialogue instead of silencing opposing views. According to Tinubu, free speech is vital, even when it targets him personally.
Tinubu Defends Free Speech Despite Insults and Opposition
Tinubu said politicians often get their best advice from their strongest opponents. “Some of the best advice a politician gets sometimes comes from his most ferocious opponents,” he said. He maintained that he would not punish anyone for writing bad reports or calling him names. His words: “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 also made it clear that only genuine defamation should be addressed. Otherwise, harsh words and insults should be allowed in a democracy. Tinubu told lawmakers, “We must always value dialogue over dictatorship, persuasion over suppression and rights over might.”
He added that democracy is not about perfection. It is about keeping hope alive and building a better future. “Our nation is not perfect, but it is strong. Our democracy is not invincible, but it is alive,” he said.
Tinubu Defends Free Speech, Says He Enjoys Watching Opposition in Disarray
Tinubu also reacted to claims that his government is pushing for a one-party state. He denied the idea, saying the All Progressives Congress (APC) remains open to all Nigerians, even members of opposition parties. However, he admitted that watching opposition parties fight among themselves gives him joy.
“I would say try your best to put your house in order. I will not help you do so. It is, indeed, a pleasure to witness you in such disarray,” Tinubu added.
This statement stirred conversations across the country. Some viewed it as a mockery of the opposition. Others saw it as honest political strategy. Still, many Nigerians are more concerned about the current cost of living than political games.
Tinubu Defends Free Speech But Enjoys Opposition Crisis
In his Democracy Day message, Tinubu defended free speech as a core part of Nigeria’s democracy. He said no citizen should face harassment for speaking out against the government. While he insisted on allowing dissent, he openly admitted enjoying the confusion in opposition parties.
