Tinubu Says Nigerians Can Criticise Him Without Fear
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has said Nigerians can insult or verbally attack him and still go to sleep without fear of government retaliation.
The President made the statement on Thursday while speaking about his administration’s approach to criticism and press freedom.
Tinubu said his government had tolerated criticism as part of its commitment to democratic values and freedom of expression.
Tinubu Says His Administration Tolerates Criticism
The President’s remarks were framed around his administration’s approach to press freedom and public criticism.
He indicated that Nigerians should be able to express their opinions about government and its policies without fearing reprisals.
Tinubu’s comments come amid an increasingly active political environment, with public debate over the performance of his administration intensifying as the country moves closer to the 2027 elections.
President Highlights Press Freedom
Tinubu linked his administration’s position to the broader principle of press freedom.
According to reports of his remarks, he said the government had demonstrated tolerance towards criticism and dissent.
Freedom of expression remains a central feature of Nigeria’s democratic system, although debates continue over the limits of speech and the appropriate response to criticism of public officials.
2027 Political Atmosphere
Tinubu’s comments come at a politically sensitive period.
Political parties and potential candidates are already positioning themselves ahead of the 2027 general elections, while debates surrounding economic reforms, security, fuel prices and governance remain intense.
The President is expected to seek a second term, while opposition forces are working to challenge the APC’s hold on the presidency.
Against that background, public criticism of political leaders is expected to increase as campaigns and political mobilisation intensify.
Tinubu’s Message
The President’s statement was essentially a reassurance that Nigerians would not face retaliation simply for verbally criticising him.
His comments are likely to generate further discussion about the relationship between political leadership, criticism and freedom of expression in Nigeria.