Tinubu Reaffirms Commitment to Democracy, Rule of Law at Interfaith Iftar with Party Leaders

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting democracy and upholding the rule of law in Nigeria, describing both as enduring pillars of national unity and stability.

The President gave the assurance on Wednesday during an interfaith breaking of 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 stressed that strengthening internal democracy within political parties remains vital to building credible electoral institutions and processes across the country.

According to him, the adoption of direct primaries by political parties offers members greater opportunity to participate in choosing their representatives at different levels of governance.

Reflecting on Nigeria’s democratic journey, the President described himself as a committed democrat who had participated in the struggle for democratic governance.

“The Chairman of IPAC provoked some questions. I am glad we are all democrats. We all subscribe to democracy voluntarily and have sustained it selflessly for the past 26 years.

“Some of us were bruised in the struggle for it. We were detained, protested on the streets, and some went into exile. We formed National Democratic Coalition (NADECO). I followed the leadership destiny that God chose for me. There is no doubt that I am a die-hard democrat,” Tinubu said.

He added that his belief in a united Nigeria remains unwavering and that democratic principles would continue to guide his leadership.

“There is no threat from any democrat under my watch. The rule of law must prevail in any democracy. The majority will have their way while the minority will have their say. I must not stand in their way. That is the sweetness and essence of democracy,” the President stated.

Tinubu also assured political leaders that his administration remains committed to conducting free and fair elections.

“I am a registered voter on the same platform as you. I will remain committed to my platform. Even when it was against me years ago, I toed the line and stayed in opposition without threatening anyone, except the military junta. I want democracy to thrive,” he added.

Earlier, the National Chairman of the APC, Nentawe Yilwatda, commended the President for providing strong leadership and effectively managing Nigeria’s diverse human and material resources.

He thanked Tinubu for bringing together leaders of political parties for the Ramadan breaking of fast, describing the gesture as significant for fostering unity among political actors.

Yilwatda assured the President of the ruling party’s continued support in realising his administration’s vision for the country.

“We are grateful to God to have you as the leader of this country. We will continue to support you and stand by you as a party,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Chairman of IPAC, Yusuf Dantalle, appealed to the President to reconsider the inclusion of the National Identity Number (NIN) as a requirement for voter registration.

Dantalle warned that such a requirement could disenfranchise many eligible voters and also raised concerns about the removal of indirect primaries for party nominations under the newly signed 2026 Electoral Law.

He further urged the restoration of financial support for political parties through the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The IPAC chairman also informed the President that a documentary film marking 26 years of democratic governance in Nigeria titled “Unbroken Democracy” had been produced.

The film, supported by Hope Uzodimma, chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum, is expected to premiere soon at the State House.