Tinubu Issues Directives To INEC, Security Operatives On Ekiti, Osun Governorship Election
President Bola Tinubu has warned that democracy risks failure when citizens lose confidence in the electoral process.
Tinubu urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies and political parties to ensure that the forthcoming elections in Ekiti and Osun states are peaceful, transparent and credible.
The President made the call on Friday during his Democracy Day address, where he reflected on Nigeria’s democratic journey and paid tribute to pro-democracy activists.
Speaking on the forthcoming elections, Tinubu said public trust in the electoral process remained essential to the survival of democracy.
Tinubu said, “In the coming days, Ekiti and Osun States will hold elections. I urge INEC, security agencies, and all parties to ensure these polls are peaceful and credible.
“Democracy fails when citizens doubt the process. To our National Assembly, Judiciary, the Press, and Civil Society: you are the guardrails of our republic. Criticise me, disagree with me, but never stop believing in Nigeria.”
The President described Nigeria’s democratic experience since 1999 as the longest uninterrupted period of civilian rule in the country’s history.
He said Nigerians had continued to choose their leaders through elections, witness peaceful transfers of power and resolve political disagreements through democratic institutions rather than violence.
Tinubu further stated, “Today, we celebrate not only democracy but also the enduring Nigerian spirit.
“For 27 unbroken years, since May 29, 1999, Nigerians have chosen their leaders through the ballot, witnessed peaceful transitions of power, and resolved disagreements in courtrooms and legislative chambers, not through violence.
“We have experienced the longest stretch of civilian rule in our history. Our democracy is not perfect, but it is ours, and we must continue to defend and strengthen it.”
Tinubu also appealed to Nigerian youths to remain committed to building the country instead of abandoning it in search of opportunities elsewhere.
He said, “To our young people: Nigeria is your home and your future. Build here, code here, work here, and vote here.
“Every great nation was built by those who stayed to solve problems, not by those who abandoned ship.”
The President commended members of the armed forces, police and intelligence agencies for their service to the country.
He also acknowledged the role of traditional rulers, religious leaders and community heads in promoting peace and national unity.
According to Tinubu, “To our armed forces, police, and intelligence services: Nigeria salutes your sacrifice.
“To our traditional rulers, faith leaders, and community heads: thank you for your support of peace and reconciliation. The government cannot do it alone.”
Tinubu used the address to honour Nigerians who played significant roles in the struggle for democracy, including those who endured persecution, imprisonment, exile and death during the pro-democracy movement.
He added, “Today, we honour the resilience of Nigerians who refused to surrender their faith in freedom, and the courage of those who stood firm against intimidation.
“We pay tribute to patriots who endured persecution, imprisonment, exile, and even death so that future generations could enjoy democracy.
“I salute labour leaders, journalists, activists, students, women, professionals, political leaders, and soldiers, both those who have passed and those still with us, for their patriotic contributions.”
