Speaking during his address at the National Assembly Complex in Abuja on Thursday, Tinubu urged security agencies not to harass citizens for criticizing his administration, emphasizing that freedom of expression is essential in a democratic society.
“Do not be afraid to hear an unkind word spoken against you,” Tinubu said. “Some of the best advice a politician gets sometimes comes from his most ferocious opponents, if they think well, though. 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.”
While acknowledging that slander and libel should be addressed, Tinubu insisted that no one should suffer injustice for simply criticizing or insulting him.
“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 added.
He urged lawmakers and political allies to embrace open dialogue and reject any form of authoritarianism.
“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,” Tinubu advised.
The President also noted that while Nigeria is not without flaws, its democracy remains alive and capable of delivering national prosperity.
“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 is still within reach and worth fighting for,” he said.
