President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Thursday celebrated Nigeria’s hard-fought democratic progress but cautioned political actors against actions capable of derailing the system.
Addressing a joint session of the National Assembly as part of activities marking this year’s Democracy Day, Tinubu commended Nigerians for sustaining democratic governance for over two decades, while urging political leaders to avoid power abuse or any form of overreach that could weaken national institutions.
“Democracy is not a gift. It is a product of sacrifice and struggle,” the President said in a solemn tone, recalling the struggles of the pro-democracy movement, especially the June 12, 1993, election that claimed the life and legacy of Chief MKO Abiola.
He continued, “As we celebrate Democracy Day, we must resist the temptation of political overreach. No arm of government should act as though democracy begins and ends with it. We are all custodians of the people’s trust.”
Tinubu warned that personal interests should not be placed above the constitution or the democratic values that define the republic.
“Our democracy must never be a cover for autocracy, and no one must use the privileges of public office to undermine our collective will,” he declared.
The President’s message came during a special session attended by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, members of the National Assembly, and other key stakeholders.
Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to working with all political parties and stakeholders to protect democracy and ensure national development.
“In a democracy, every voice matters. Even in disagreement, we must find the common thread that binds us as Nigerians,” he said.
He also reiterated the importance of respecting the doctrine of separation of powers, reminding lawmakers that checks and balances are not weapons of division, but instruments of accountability and order.
