President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his dedication to democratic governance, assuring Nigerians that his administration will uphold constitutional values and political plurality. He made this pledge during his State of the Nation address on Democracy Day at a joint session of the National Assembly in Abuja.
Amid growing concerns about a one-party state, Tinubu dismissed speculation that the All Progressives Congress (APC) intends to undermine opposition parties. He described such fears as misplaced and emphasized that Nigeria’s democratic future is secure under his leadership.
“To those who fear a one-party state, I assure you—your concerns are unfounded. Democracy will remain the foundation of this nation,” he stated, while recalling his own experiences as an opposition figure in 2003.
The President acknowledged the role of the National Assembly in safeguarding Nigeria’s democracy in key moments, such as the rejection of the third-term agenda in 2006 and the elevation of Goodluck Jonathan to Acting President in 2010 under the doctrine of necessity.
In a symbolic gesture, Tinubu also announced national honours for prominent figures who contributed to Nigeria’s democratic evolution. Among the honorees were the late Kudirat Abiola, awarded the Commander of the Federal Republic (CFR), Nobel Laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka, who received the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON), and environmental activist Ken Saro-Wiwa, honored posthumously alongside other members of the Ogoni Nine.
“I shall be exercising my constitutional prerogative of mercy to grant a full presidential pardon to these individuals and others, in recognition of their sacrifices,” Tinubu announced.
The full list of awardees includes politicians, journalists, activists, and civil society leaders who played significant roles in advancing democratic ideals, some posthumously. The honours span multiple categories, from the Order of the Niger (OON) to Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) and higher distinctions.
While affirming his respect for multiparty democracy, Tinubu also took a swipe at the current state of opposition parties, stating he takes no responsibility for their disarray and will not assist in their reorganization. “The responsibility of building strong opposition lies with the opposition. It is not my role to help them do that,” he said.
The Democracy Day address underscored Tinubu’s continued efforts to frame his administration as a guardian of democratic values while navigating growing political tensions and calls for inclusive governance.
