President Bola Tinubu has confessed to participating in various protests during his political career, asserting that these demonstrations were always peaceful.
This statement was made during a significant meeting where he accepted the Letter of Credence from the newly appointed United States Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Richard Mills Jr., at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
During the meeting, President Tinubu emphasized the importance of maintaining democracy and its institutions. He highlighted that protests are a fundamental aspect of a democratic society, but firmly stated that no government would tolerate protests that lead to violence or the destruction of property.
“During the military era, we made our voices heard against dictatorship, and I was part of the group that engaged in peaceful protests without resorting to the destruction of property. We have worked hard to ensure 25 years of unbroken democracy and I will continue to maintain this democracy,” Tinubu asserted.
He reiterated his stance on peaceful demonstrations, stating, “we will never encourage any protests that lead to the destruction of lives and property.”
President Tinubu also addressed Nigeria’s strategic role in Africa as the continent’s largest democracy. He called on the U.S. government to increase its engagement with Africa, stressing the mutual benefits of a stronger partnership.
“Nigeria is ready to play its role as the largest democracy in Africa that is worthy of emulation to other African countries, but we need more U.S. partnership on the continent that is beneficial to both sides. We believe in freedom, and we are providing the leadership to make Nigeria’s economy grow,” he declared.
In response, Ambassador Mills reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to supporting Nigeria’s democratic values and expressed readiness to assist Nigeria in playing a larger role on the global stage. “Nigeria is crucial to the United States because we share democratic values, and we are ready to give you all the support,” he said.
