President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared that while opposition parties are free to seek his removal from office, he will not make their task any easier, insisting that political contests are a normal feature of democracy.
The President made the remarks during a meeting with members of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference, where he addressed concerns over Nigeria’s political climate, governance and the conduct of opposition parties.
Speaking frankly, Tinubu acknowledged the economic and governance challenges confronting the country, noting that many of the issues were inherited from previous administrations.
“The challenges are there. I inherited them. I didn’t run away from them,” the President said.
On the country’s political landscape, Tinubu said it was only natural for political opponents to work towards replacing an incumbent government. However, he stressed that he would vigorously defend his mandate.
“Those who want to unseat me will try. I won’t help them tie a rope around my neck. We’ll wrestle till the end. All is fair in politics,” he said.
Responding to allegations that his administration was using state institutions to intimidate political opponents, Tinubu dismissed the claims, maintaining that his government remained committed to democratic principles and political freedom.
“We will never, never intimidate anyone. If political opponents cry wolf, maybe they are afraid of their own shadows, or it is their own incompetence, not me,” the President stated.
Tinubu added that although political rivalry is inevitable in a democracy, it would not distract his administration from delivering on its promises to Nigerians. He urged political actors to uphold civility and mutual respect despite their differences, stressing that governance must remain focused on addressing the nation’s pressing challenges.