President Bola Tinubu has called on elected leaders to uphold the tenets of democracy at all times and on all occasions and make real the dreams of a just and equitable society that the country’s founding fathers and pro democracy activists fought for
Tinubu, who gave this admonition while addressing a joint session of the National Assembly, told the lawmakers to always value dialogue over dictatorship, persuasion over suppression, and rights over might, calling for tolerantce and broad-minded approach to actions regarding speech and civil liberties.
He asked the legislators not to be afraid of unkind words spoken against them, noting that the best advice a politician gets sometimes comes from his most ferocious opponents.
President Tinubu cautioned against silencing critics as, according to him, the imposed silence of repressed voices breeds chaos, and ill will, injurious to democracy in the long term.
Tinubu said, “while malicious slander and libel should not go unattended, no one should bear the brunt of injustice for merely writing a bad report about me or calling me names, democracy requires a fair degree of tolerance for harsh words and stinging insults.”
He called on leaders and members of the National Assembly to defend name calling with democratic institutions, rather than resorting to other undemocratic means, reminding them that Nigeria as a nation may not be perfect, it is strong with a democracy that is visible, and alive.
While saluting the courage, sacrifices, and service of Nigeria’s Armed Forces to the nation, the President insisted that National Security is the foundation of peace and progress, stating that efforts have been intensified by security agencies to reclaim communities from criminals and terrorists.
Tinubu revealed that through investment in technology and training, improved inter-agency cooperation, and intelligence gathering, Nigeria highways are safer and secure
He maintained that the Armed Forces selfless dedication to protecting the nation’s sovereignty and ensuring the safety of citizens should serve as an inspiration to all, asking leaders and citizens to offer continued support and prayers in recognition of the pivotal role they play in safeguarding their freedoms.
Editor: Ken Eseni
