ABUJA, NIGERIA – President Bola Tinubu has publicly acknowledged his participation in peaceful protests during Nigeria’s military era.
This admission was made during a ceremony at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Thursday, where Tinubu received a Letter of Credence from the new U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills Jr.
President Tinubu reminisced about his involvement in protests against military dictatorship, emphasizing his commitment to democratic principles. “Our relationship with America is rich. We believe in democracy and freedom.
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Some of your predecessors worked hard during our transition to democracy, and we remember the likes of Ambassador Howard Jeter,” Tinubu said.
He continued, “During the military era, we made our voices heard against dictatorship, and I was part of the group that engaged in peaceful protests without resorting to the destruction of property. We have worked hard to ensure 25 years of unbroken democracy, and I will continue to maintain this democracy.”
Tinubu’s reflections come at a time when the nation is bracing for a planned nationwide protest over the deteriorating economic situation. This forthcoming demonstration echoes past protests, such as the January 2012 mass protest against President Goodluck Jonathan’s decision to remove fuel subsidies.
Despite Nigeria’s then-thriving economy, Tinubu, along with notable figures like Wole Soyinka and Tunde Bakari, led the charge against Jonathan’s policy, highlighting the enduring spirit of activism in Nigeria’s political landscape.
While affirming his belief in the importance of peaceful demonstrations as a democratic right, Tinubu stressed his administration’s stance against protests that result in violence and property destruction. “We will never encourage any protests that lead to the destruction of lives and property,” he asserted.
The President’s acknowledgment of his activist past and his call for peaceful protest underscore the enduring challenges and commitments in Nigeria’s democratic journey. As the country faces economic hardships, Tinubu’s leadership will be closely watched for its ability to balance democratic freedoms with maintaining public order.
