President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to sustaining democracy and the rule of law in Nigeria, describing them as key pillars for the country’s unity and stability.
Tinubu gave the assurance on Wednesday during an inter-faith breaking of the fast with members of the National Working Committee of the All Progressives Congress and the leadership of the Inter-Party Advisory Council at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
The President said strengthening internal democracy within political parties is essential for building credible electoral institutions and processes in the country. He added that direct primaries would give party members greater opportunity to participate in choosing their representatives at various levels of governance.
Tinubu described himself as a committed democrat who had been part of the struggle to restore democratic rule in Nigeria.
According to him, “Some of us were bruised struggling for democracy. We were detained, we protested, we had street demonstrations and even went into exile. We formed NADECO and remained committed to a united Nigeria.”
He stressed that under his administration there would be no threat to democratic principles and that the rule of law would continue to prevail.
“The majority will have their way while the minority will have their say. That is the sweetness and essence of democracy,” he said.
The President also assured political party leaders of his commitment to conducting free and fair elections, noting that democracy thrives on voluntary participation and respect for established rules.
Earlier, the National Chairman of the APC, Nentawe Yilwatda, commended Tinubu for what he described as strong leadership and effective management of the country’s human and material resources.
He expressed appreciation to the President for hosting the leadership of the APC and other political parties for the Ramadan fast-breaking and pledged the party’s continued support for his administration.
Also speaking, Chairman of IPAC, Yusuf Dantalle, appealed to the President to reconsider the inclusion of the National Identity Number as a requirement for voter registration under the newly enacted Electoral Act 2026.
Dantalle warned that the requirement could disenfranchise many eligible voters and also raised concerns about the removal of the indirect mode of party nominations in the new law.
He further appealed for the restoration of financial support from the Independent National Electoral Commission to political parties.
Dantalle also informed the President about a documentary titled “Unbroken Democracy” produced to mark 26 years of democratic governance in Nigeria. The film, supported by Hope Uzodimma, chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum, is expected to premiere at the State House soon.