The Digest:
President Bola Tinubu has dismissed criticisms that his administration is responsible for suppressing the opposition, responding to detractors who accuse him of "killing" political opposition in Nigeria. Speaking amid ongoing political tensions, Tinubu stated: "Whatever they call you, any name, any nickname, critics must talk. When they accused me of killing opposition, I didn't have a gun. I could have given myself a license when I have the authority. But I can't blame anybody from jumping out of fear, sinking ship if they did." The president urged Nigerians to pull together against terrorism and banditry, stressing that security challenges require collective effort rather than division. He called for reflection on the nation's founding fathers' vision of constitutional democracy built on unity, not conflict. Tinubu maintained that constructive engagement, not hostility, is essential to stabilising the country and strengthening democracy.
Key Points:
- Tinubu's denial aims to counter narratives of authoritarian drift.
- His remarks reflect sensitivity to accusations of democratic backsliding.
- Government seeks to deflect criticism, while opposition points to defections.
- This signals the administration's awareness of its political image.
- The timing, amid opposition defections, addresses growing concerns.
Sources: Social Media/X
