President Bola Tinubu reiterates his commitment to protecting democracy and the rule of law in Nigeria while engaging APC and IPAC leaders on electoral reforms and party democracy
Tinubu Pledges to Protect Democracy, Rule of Law as Nigeria Marks 26 Years of Civil Rule
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Wednesday reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to safeguarding democracy and strengthening the rule of law in Nigeria, describing both as enduring pillars for national unity and stability.
Tinubu said his government remains determined to uphold democratic principles and good governance as a lasting legacy for future generations.
The assurance came during an inter-faith breaking of the fast with members of the National Working Committee of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and leaders of the Inter‑Party Advisory Council (IPAC) at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
The president emphasised that strengthening internal democracy within political parties is essential to building credible electoral institutions and ensuring transparent governance in Africa’s most populous nation.
Tinubu: ‘I Am a Die-Hard Democrat’
Reflecting on Nigeria’s democratic journey over the past 26 years, Tinubu recalled the sacrifices made by pro-democracy activists during the military era.
“The Chairman of IPAC, Yusuf Dantalle, provoked some questions. I am glad we are all democrats. And we all subscribe to this democracy voluntarily, willingly, and we’ve been at it selflessly in the last 26 years.
“Some of us had been bruised struggling for it. We were detained, we protested, we had street demonstrations, we went into exile and all of that. We formed NADECO. I followed the leadership destiny that God has chosen for me. There’s no doubt about it. I am a die-hard democrat.
“I followed that belief wholeheartedly, committed to a united Nigeria, and that principle and the philosophy will live and die with me.”
Tinubu also stressed that democracy must always operate within the framework of the rule of law.
“There’s no threat from any democrat under my watch. The rule of law must prevail in any democracy. 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.”
The president further assured political stakeholders that his administration remains committed to credible and transparent elections.
“I am a registered voter. I am on the same platform as you. I’m going to stick to my platform. When it was against me years ago, I toed the line. I was in opposition without a threat to any human being except the military junta.
“I want democracy, and since democracy is back here, there’s a fundamental voluntariness that is enshrined, and I am extremely glad to listen to you.”
Tinubu also highlighted the importance of direct primaries, noting that they offer party members greater participation in selecting their representatives at different levels of governance.
The Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Nentawe Yilwatda, praised the president for providing strong leadership in a diverse and multi-ethnic country.
“We thank you for inviting the leadership of the All Progressives Congress, IPAC and other political parties to be part of this breaking of fast. This means so much for us as a party and people.”
He assured the president of the ruling party’s continued support in delivering his administration’s vision.
“We are grateful to God to have you as a leader of this country. We shall support you, and we will stand by you as a party.”
Meanwhile, the Chairman of the Inter‑Party Advisory Council, Yusuf Dantalle, appealed to the president to reconsider aspects of the newly signed 2026 Electoral Law, particularly the requirement for the National Identity Number (NIN) during voter registration.
According to him, the policy could potentially disenfranchise millions of eligible voters who have yet to obtain the identification number.
Dantalle also urged the government to reconsider the removal of the indirect mode of party nominations and called for the restoration of financial support previously provided to political parties by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The IPAC chairman also disclosed that a documentary film titled “Unbroken Democracy” has been produced to commemorate Nigeria’s 26 years of uninterrupted democratic rule.
The project, supported by Hope Uzodimma, Chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum, is scheduled to premiere at the State House in Abuja.
According to Dantalle, the documentary highlights the struggles, sacrifices and milestones that have shaped Nigeria’s democratic experience since the return to civilian rule in 1999.
The meeting comes at a time when political stakeholders are increasingly focusing on electoral reforms and preparations ahead of the 2027 general elections.
For Tinubu, however, the message remains clear — Nigeria’s democracy must be protected and strengthened.
By reaffirming his commitment to the rule of law and credible electoral processes, the president signalled that safeguarding democratic institutions remains central to his administration’s agenda. Read More
