“I Am a Die-Hard Democrat,” Tinubu Says, Pledges Commitment to Rule of Law

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening democracy and upholding the rule of law in Nigeria, describing himself as a “die-hard democrat.”

The president made the remarks on Wednesday during an inter-faith breaking of the fast with members of the National Working Committee of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and leaders of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.

Tinubu said Nigeria’s unity and stability depend on good governance and strong democratic institutions, adding that his administration intends to preserve those values as part of its legacy.

He emphasised that strengthening internal democracy within political parties remains essential for building credible electoral systems and institutions. According to him, direct primaries provide party members with greater opportunities to participate in choosing candidates for public office.

Reflecting on his role in Nigeria’s pro-democracy struggle, the president recalled the sacrifices made by activists who opposed military rule and campaigned for democratic governance.

“There’s no threat from any democrat under my watch. The rule of law must prevail in any democracy,” Tinubu said, noting that democratic systems must allow the majority to decide while protecting the right of the minority to be heard.

He also assured political leaders of his commitment to free and fair elections.

Speaking at the event, APC National Chairman Nentawe Yilwatda commended the president’s leadership and his management of Nigeria’s diverse population and resources. He also pledged the party’s continued support for the administration.

Meanwhile, IPAC Chairman Yusuf Dantalle urged the president to reconsider the requirement for a National Identity Number (NIN) in voter registration under the newly signed 2026 Electoral Law, warning that it could disenfranchise some eligible voters.

Dantalle also appealed for the restoration of financial support from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to political parties.

He further informed the president about a documentary titled Unbroken Democracy, which chronicles Nigeria’s 26 years of democratic governance and is expected to premiere at the State House.