Tinubu: I Was Detained And Exiled For Democracy

President Bola Tinubu has affirmed that he dedicated his life to the struggle for Nigeria’s democracy. He made the remarks at the Presidential Villa in Abuja during an interfaith iftar, where he hosted members of the National Working Committee of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and leaders of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC).

In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, the president said that God had chosen a leadership destiny for him and reiterated his commitment to good governance, adherence to the rule of law, and the preservation of democratic values in the country.

Tinubu emphasized the need to strengthen electoral institutions, processes, and systems across political parties. He also advocated for the adoption of direct primaries, describing the system as a means to allow party members more active participation in selecting candidates for political offices.

Describing himself as a committed democrat, the president pledged to continue working toward Nigeria’s unity while upholding the rule of law. He reflected on the personal sacrifices made during the fight for democracy, including detention, protests, street demonstrations, and exile, noting his involvement with NADECO.

“Some of us had been bruised struggling for it. We were detained, we protested, we had street demonstrations, we went into exile and all of that. We formed NADECO. I followed the leadership destiny that God has chosen for me. There’s no doubt about it,” Tinubu said.