I Protested for Democracy — Tinubu
“I was there, ”Tinubu recalls peaceful Pro-democracy protests...
President Bola Tinubu urges organizers to cancel planned nationwide protest over economic hardship, citing concerns for stability, despite his own history of participating in peaceful demonstrations.
President Bola Tinubu revealed his past involvement in peaceful protests against Nigeria's former military regime during a ceremony at the Presidential Villa on July 25. He made these comments while accepting a letter of credence from Richard Mille Jr., the newly appointed US Ambassador to Nigeria.
President Tinubu underscored his dedication to preserving Nigeria's democratic legacy, which has endured for 25 years without interruption. By sharing his personal experience as a nonviolent protester, Tinubu highlighted his longstanding commitment to democratic principles and his determination to protect and strengthen Nigeria's democratic institutions.
“Some of your predecessors worked hard during our transition to democracy, and we remember the likes of Ambassador Howard Jeter.
“We look forward to Nigeria and the United States continuously working to expand cooperation on shared goals and democratic values.
“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.
“In as much as we believe that demonstrations are part of democracy, we will never encourage any protests that lead to the destruction of lives and property.”
President Bola Tinubu expressed Nigeria's readiness to lead as Africa's largest democracy during a meeting with US Ambassador Richard Mille Jr. at the Presidential Villa. He emphasized the need for a mutually beneficial partnership between Africa and the US, fostering cooperation and growth.
Ambassador Mille Jr. reaffirmed the US's commitment to supporting Nigeria's democratic journey, ensuring continued collaboration and strengthening ties. Earlier in the day, President Tinubu received credentials from the high commissioners of Malaysia and Botswana, further solidifying international relations.
President Tinubu's remarks come at a pivotal moment, as reports surface of a planned nationwide protest by youths, scheduled for August 1, to address economic challenges and hardship. The president's comments on his past involvement in peaceful protests take on added significance in light of this impending demonstration.
The Federal Government and President Bola Tinubu have urged the organizers of the planned nationwide protest to reconsider and cancel the event, slated for August 1. The government's request comes amid concerns over potential disruptions and instability.
President Tinubu's appeal to call off the protest is particularly notable, given his own history of participating in peaceful demonstrations during the fight for democracy. The government's request seeks to address the grievances of the protesting youths through dialogue and alternative channels, rather than street protests.
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