President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has said he played a significant role in the struggle that led to Nigeria’s current democratic system, recalling the sacrifices made by pro-democracy activists during the country’s military era.
Tinubu made the remarks on Thursday at the Presidential Villa in Abuja while hosting members of the National Working Committee of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and leaders of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) for an interfaith Iftar.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the president said his political journey and leadership path were guided by destiny.
Tinubu stressed his administration’s commitment to promoting good governance, respecting the rule of law, and safeguarding democratic principles across the country.
He also emphasised the need to strengthen Nigeria’s electoral institutions, processes, and internal systems within political parties in order to deepen democratic participation.
The president further advocated for the adoption of direct primaries by political parties, noting that the system would allow more party members to take part in the selection of candidates for elective offices.
Describing himself as a steadfast democrat, Tinubu reiterated his pledge to work towards national unity while upholding democratic ideals and the rule of law.
Reflecting on the pro-democracy struggle, he recalled the sacrifices made by activists, including detention, street protests and exile.
“Some of us had been bruised struggling for it. We were detained, we protested, we had street demonstrations, we went into exile and all of that. We formed National Democratic Coalition (NADECO). I followed the leadership destiny that God has chosen for me,” Tinubu said.
