President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening democracy and upholding the rule of law in Nigeria, promising that these principles will remain a cornerstone of his administration.
Speaking on Wednesday during an inter-faith breaking of the fast with leaders of political parties at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, the President said his government would continue to promote democratic values and good governance to ensure stability and unity across the country.
The gathering brought together members of the National Working Committee of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the leadership of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), a body representing registered political parties in Nigeria.
President Tinubu told the party leaders that democracy in Nigeria had been built through years of sacrifice and struggle and must be protected for future generations.
“We are all democrats. Many of us were bruised in the struggle for democracy. We were detained, we protested, we held demonstrations and some went into exile,” he said.
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The President recalled the role played by pro-democracy activists during Nigeria’s military era, noting that the fight for democratic governance shaped his political journey.
“I followed that belief wholeheartedly, committed to a united Nigeria,” Tinubu said. “There is no threat from any democrat under my watch. The rule of law must prevail in any democracy.”
He added that democracy must balance the will of the majority with the rights of the minority.
“The majority will have their way, but the minority must also have their say. That is the sweetness and essence of democracy,” the President said.
Tinubu also assured political party leaders that his administration would continue to support free and fair elections across the country.
“I am a registered voter like every other Nigerian, and I remain committed to the democratic process,” he said.
The President stressed the importance of strengthening internal democracy within political parties, arguing that transparent party processes are essential for building credible electoral systems.
According to him, the adoption of direct primaries can give party members greater influence in selecting candidates for elective positions.
“Direct primaries provide party members with better opportunities to participate and determine who represents them at different levels of governance,” he noted.
Earlier, the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, praised the President for what he described as strong and inclusive leadership.
Yilwatda said Tinubu had demonstrated the ability to manage Nigeria’s diverse population and resources effectively.
“We thank you for inviting leaders of the APC, IPAC and other political parties to this important gathering,” he said. “We are grateful to have you as the leader of this country and we will continue to support your vision for Nigeria.”
The Chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council, Yusuf Dantalle, used the occasion to raise concerns about provisions in the newly signed 2026 Electoral Law.
He appealed to the President to reconsider the requirement for the National Identity Number (NIN) as part of voter registration, warning that it could prevent some eligible Nigerians from participating in elections.
Dantalle also urged the government to restore financial support previously provided to political parties through the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
He further informed the President that a documentary film marking Nigeria’s 26 years of uninterrupted democratic rule had been produced.
The film, titled Unbroken Democracy, was supported by Governor Hope Uzodimma, chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum, and is expected to premiere soon at the Presidential Villa.
The meeting formed part of broader engagements between the presidency and political stakeholders aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s democratic institutions and promoting cooperation among political parties.
