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I Participated In Peaceful Protests, Never Violence – Tinubu

Published

5 months ago

Jul 25, 2024.

President Tinubu emphasized the importance of non-violent protests and sustaining democracy during a meeting with the new U.S. Ambassador.

EKO HOT BLOG reports that President Bola Tinubu has acknowledged participating in various protests but emphasized his commitment to non-violence. The President made these remarks while receiving the Letter of Credence from the newly appointed United States Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Richard Mills Jr., at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.

Tinubu highlighted the significance of sustaining democracy and its institutions, noting that protests are a fundamental part of democracy. However, he firmly stated that no government would tolerate demonstrations that lead to the destruction of lives and property.

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“Our relationship with America is rich. We believe in democracy and freedom. Some of your predecessors worked hard during our transition to democracy, and we remember the likes of Ambassador Howard Jeter,” said Tinubu. “We look forward to Nigeria and the United States continuously working to expand cooperation on shared goals and democratic values.”

Reflecting on Nigeria’s history, Tinubu said, “During the military era, we made our voices heard against dictatorship, and I was part of the group that engaged in peaceful protests without resorting to the destruction of property. We have worked hard to ensure 25 years of unbroken democracy, and I will continue to maintain this democracy.”

He reiterated that while demonstrations are part of democracy, they must not lead to violence: “We will never encourage any protests that lead to the destruction of lives and property.”

Welcoming the U.S. State Department’s recognition of Nigeria’s strategic role as Africa’s largest democracy, President Tinubu urged the U.S. government to pay more attention to Africa.

”Nigeria is ready to play its role as the largest democracy in Africa that is worthy of emulation to other African countries, but we need more U.S. partnership on the continent that is beneficial to both sides. We believe in freedom, and we are providing the leadership to make Nigeria’s economy grow,” the President said.

Ambassador Mills affirmed U.S. support for Nigeria’s democracy, and pledged support for bigger roles for Nigeria in the international arena.

”Nigeria is crucial to the United States because we share democratic values, and we are ready to give you all the support.

”I am here to make sure that the relationship blossoms both on democracy and the economic side,” Ambassador Mills said.

Expressing the United States’ commitment to expanding cooperation with Nigeria on cybercrimes, the Ambassador announced the establishment of a special office at the Embassy to work closely with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Earlier, President Tinubu also received Letters of Credence from the High Commissioner of Malaysia to Nigeria, Mr. Aiyub Bin Omar, and the High Commissioner of Botswana, Ms. Phild Nani Kereng.

Protests Violence Tinubu

President Tinubu told the High Commissioner of Malaysia that Nigeria would work towards improving the balance of trade between the two countries.