President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his commitment to democratic principles, describing himself as a “die-hard democrat” while addressing political leaders at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
Tinubu made the remark during an inter-faith Ramadan fast-breaking event with members of the National Working Committee of the All Progressives Congress and the leadership of the Inter‑Party Advisory Council.
Reflecting on Nigeria’s democratic journey, the president noted that many political actors had made sacrifices in the struggle to restore democracy after years of military rule.
“I am glad we are all democrats. And we all subscribe to this democracy voluntarily, willingly,” Tinubu said.
He added: “Some of us had been bruised struggling for it.
We were detained, we protested, we had street demonstrations, we went into exile… We formed NADECO… There’s no doubt about it. I am a die-hard democrat.”
Tinubu stressed that his political philosophy is rooted in a commitment to national unity and democratic governance.
“I followed that belief wholeheartedly, committed to a united Nigeria, and that principle and the philosophy will live and die with me,” he stated.
The president also emphasised the importance of the rule of law and tolerance in a democratic system, noting that majority decisions must prevail while minority views are respected.
“The majority will have their way, and the minority will have their say… That is the sweetness, the essence of democracy,” he said.
Tinubu further argued that strengthening internal democracy within political parties is critical to building credible electoral institutions and processes in the country.
During the meeting, the chairman of the Inter‑Party Advisory Council, Yusuf Dantalle, urged the president to reconsider making the National Identity Number a requirement for voter registration, warning that it could disenfranchise some eligible voters.
