See What Tinubu Said About People Who Insult Him — “Call Me Names, I’ll Still Defend Your Right”

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has made a strong statement in defence of free speech, declaring that even insults and harsh criticisms directed at him will never stop him from upholding Nigerians’ democratic rights.

Speaking during his Democracy Day address at the National Assembly Complex in Abuja on Thursday, the President emphasized that freedom of expression remains a cornerstone of democracy and must be protected at all costs.

“Call me any names,” Tinubu said boldly. “I’m not here to make you happy politically, and I will still call upon democracy to defend your right to do so.”

His remark comes at a time when public trust in the government is strained and many Nigerians are vocal about their dissatisfaction. Tinubu’s call to tolerate criticism appears to be an attempt to foster political maturity and encourage open dialogue across party lines.

He further advised security agencies and lawmakers not to clamp down on dissenting voices, stressing that suppressing criticism only breeds chaos.

“Do not be afraid to hear an unkind word spoken against you,” he said. “Some of the best advice a politician gets sometimes comes from his most ferocious opponents — if they think well, though. We do not seek silence, because the imposed silence of repressed voices breeds chaos and ill will, not the harmonics of democracy in the long term.”

While recognizing that defamation should not be ignored, the President stressed that constructive or even harsh feedback must never be criminalized.

“No one should suffer injustice or punishment for simply criticizing or insulting me,” he said, adding that tolerance is crucial in strengthening Nigeria’s democratic journey.

He urged lawmakers to legislate in ways that protect civil liberties and promote dialogue rather than dictatorship.

“We must always value dialogue over dictatorship, persuasion over suppression, and rights over might,” he added. “Be tolerant and broad-minded in your legislative action regarding speech and civil liberties.”

In his closing remarks, Tinubu acknowledged Nigeria’s imperfections but reaffirmed his belief that the nation’s democratic institutions are alive and strong.

“Our nation is not perfect, but it is strong. Our democracy is not invincible, but it is alive. And this means our dream of a prosperous, happy nation is still within reach and worth fighting for.”

The speech drew mixed reactions from the public. While some praised the President for promoting democratic values, others remained skeptical, urging the government to back the words with visible reforms and an end to any form of repression.

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