President Bola Tinubu reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to democracy and the rule of law in Nigeria, describing himself as a “die-hard democrat” during an inter-faith breaking of the fast with leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
Addressing party leaders, Tinubu reflected on his personal sacrifices for democracy over the past 26 years, including protests, street demonstrations, detention, and exile, and noted his involvement in NADECO. He emphasised that his belief in a united Nigeria and democratic governance is lifelong.
“The majority will have their way, and the minority will have their say and their way. I must not stand in their way. That is the sweetness, the essence of democracy,” he said, highlighting the importance of internal democracy within political parties.
Tinubu further stressed that direct primaries empower party members to select their representatives and vowed to uphold good governance and the rule of law throughout his administration.
The APC Chairman, Nentawe Yilwatda, praised the President for his leadership and assured the party’s continued support for his vision. Meanwhile, IPAC Chairman Yusuf Dantalle urged the President to reconsider making the National Identity Number (NIN) mandatory for voter registration and called for the restoration of INEC’s financial support for political parties.
Tinubu’s remarks come ahead of the premiere of a film titled Unbroken Democracy, documenting 26 years of democratic governance in Nigeria, supported by Hope Uzodimma, Chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum.
