“Elections Are Conducted by Nigerians, Not on Social Media Platforms” — Tinubu to Opposition

President Bola Tinubu has urged opposition members and party supporters to focus on elections conducted by Nigerians, not debates on social media. Speaking yesterday, he emphasized that the democratic process takes place at the ballot box, not online platforms.

The President also called on Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, to reconcile with Governor Hyacinth Alia, highlighting the need for unity within Benue State’s political leadership.

At the Progressive Governors’ Forum and Renewed Hope Ambassadors Strategic Summit held at the Presidential Villa, Tinubu outlined his administration’s shift from economic stabilisation toward accelerated growth in 2026. Vice President Kashim Shettima delivered his address on his behalf, stressing the importance of All Progressives Congress (APC) cohesion in achieving this goal.

Tinubu recognized Akume’s extensive public service—ranging from Benue’s director of protocol to two-term governor, senator, minister, and now SGF—before appealing directly for collaboration: “Let’s build the area together.” The remark received applause amid ongoing tensions over party control in Benue.

The state has seen a division between Akume’s established network and Alia’s reformist base, which propelled his 2023 election victory amid regional insecurity. Key flashpoints include ward-level leadership, nominations, parallel meetings, suspensions, appointments, and legislative allegiances—issues that could affect federal-state coordination on security and development.

Tinubu described the administration’s first phase as “difficult but necessary,” noting that reforms since 2023 have improved fiscal credibility, eased inflationary pressures, addressed fuel supply disruptions, and strengthened the naira with support from the Central Bank of Nigeria.

“Our economy is picking up. Major investment decisions across Africa increasingly favour Nigeria. That reflects renewed confidence in our direction,” he said.

The President outlined the proposed ₦58.18 trillion 2026 budget, emphasizing a pivot from stabilisation to growth. He highlighted record capital expenditure, the country’s largest security allocation, and tax reforms designed to protect vulnerable citizens while broadening revenue streams. He urged the Renewed Hope Ambassadors to communicate these policies directly to communities, markets, and campuses, reinforcing that elections are determined by citizens, not social media campaigns.

SGF Akume called for institutionalised Central Results Delivery and Coordination Units at state level, stressing that governance should move from policy statements to measurable outcomes, with closer federal-state alignment to maintain reform momentum.

On the legislative side, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, represented by Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, confirmed the National Assembly’s support for the administration’s economic reform agenda. Abbas highlighted the need to bridge gaps between government policy and public perception through transparency and sustained engagement. He also proposed a quarterly interface between federal and APC-led state legislatures and a public dashboard to track revenues, capital projects, and social programs. Structured youth and women participation in monitoring reforms was emphasized as a means of increasing political ownership and accountability.