By By Elizabeth Ugbo
Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his commitment to democratic governance and the rule of law in Nigeria. The President made the declaration on Wednesday at the Presidential Villa in Abuja during an interfaith Ramadan fast-breaking with leaders of the All Progressives Congress and the Inter-Party Advisory Council. He assured political leaders that his administration will protect democratic institutions and ensure credible elections across the country.
Tinubu Pledges Credible Elections and Strong Institutions
President Tinubu stressed that Nigeria’s unity and stability depend on strong democratic institutions. He noted that respect for the rule of law remains central to good governance.
He assured political leaders that his administration will safeguard free and credible elections nationwide.
“I am a die-hard democrat,” Tinubu said.
He added that democratic governance remains the best path for national development.
President Highlights Importance of Internal Party Democracy
Tinubu also emphasized the need for strong internal democracy within political parties.
According to him, transparent party processes strengthen electoral credibility and improve governance outcomes.
He specifically highlighted direct primaries as a tool for expanding participation among party members.
Direct primaries, he said, allow members to choose candidates who represent them at different levels of government.
Tinubu Reflects on Nigeria’s Pro-Democracy Struggle
The President also reflected on Nigeria’s long struggle for democratic rule.
He recalled his involvement in the pro-democracy movement during the military era.
Tinubu praised activists from the National Democratic Coalition, also known as NADECO.
Many activists, he said, faced detention, exile and persecution while fighting to restore civilian rule.
“These sacrifices shaped my commitment to democratic ideals,” the President stated.
He further stressed that Nigeria must protect democratic freedoms at all times.
“There is no threat from any democrat under my watch,” Tinubu said.
“The rule of law must prevail in any democracy.”
He added that democracy thrives when both majority and minority voices receive protection.
APC Chairman Commends Tinubu’s Leadership
Earlier, the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Nentawe Yilwatda, praised the President’s leadership.
Yilwatda described Tinubu’s governance style as inclusive and consultative.
He noted that inviting leaders from multiple political parties to the Ramadan gathering demonstrated the President’s commitment to unity.
“We are grateful to God to have you as the leader of this country,” Yilwatda said.
“We will support you and stand by you as a party.”
IPAC Raises Concerns About Electoral Act 2026
Meanwhile, the chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council, Yusuf Dantalle, raised concerns about provisions in Nigeria’s Electoral Act 2026.
Dantalle urged the President to review the requirement for the National Identity Number in voter registration.
He warned that the policy could disenfranchise millions of eligible voters who do not yet possess the identification number.
The IPAC chairman also called for reconsideration of the removal of indirect party nomination processes.
Additionally, he appealed for the restoration of financial support previously provided by the electoral commission to political parties.
Documentary to Mark Nigeria’s 26 Years of Democracy
Dantalle also announced the production of a documentary titled “Unbroken Democracy.”
The film highlights Nigeria’s democratic journey since 1999.
According to him, the documentary received support from Hope Uzodimma, chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum.
The film will premiere soon at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
Political Leaders Call for Greater Cooperation
The meeting ended with renewed calls for stronger collaboration among political parties.
Leaders emphasized the importance of cooperation in strengthening democratic institutions.
They also stressed the need to preserve the rule of law and ensure stable governance across Nigeria.
