A senior figure in the All Progressives Congress (APC), Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, has cautioned Nigerians both at home and abroad against making reckless remarks that he says are damaging the country’s reputation and undermining President Bola Tinubu’s government. He made the appeal on Sunday while addressing journalists in Osogbo, where he described the habit of ridiculing the nation and its leadership as unpatriotic and counterproductive.
According to Oyintiloye, while the Nigerian constitution guarantees freedom of speech and expression, that right should not be interpreted as a license to hurl insults at the country or its leaders. He insisted that criticism is an important part of democracy but maintained that such views must be expressed with respect, civility, and a sense of responsibility. He argued that careless words, especially from influential citizens living abroad, send the wrong signals to the international community and leave lasting stains on Nigeria’s image.
The former lawmaker stressed that the way Nigerians project their country and its leadership is a reflection of how the nation is perceived globally. He warned that the internet never forgets, and those who indulge in reckless attacks on Nigeria may one day become victims of their own utterances. He urged citizens to draw inspiration from Americans who, regardless of their challenges, constantly affirm their patriotism by saying, “God Bless America.” According to him, Nigeria needs the same spirit of loyalty and positive affirmation if it is to overcome its present difficulties.
Oyintiloye acknowledged that the nation is facing serious economic and social challenges but maintained that the Tinubu administration is working hard to address them. He urged patience and collective effort rather than constant negativity, emphasizing that disparaging remarks will only slow progress. He also lamented that Nigerians abroad are sometimes subjected to harassment and investigations because of the negative image created by their compatriots who speak ill of the country for political reasons.
Concluding his remarks, the APC chieftain appealed to opposition figures and critics to put national interest above partisan politics and stop tarnishing the nation’s image. He expressed optimism that Nigeria will eventually overcome its challenges and reassured citizens that the time will come when they will be proud to identify themselves as Nigerians anywhere in the world.