A prominent member of the All Progressives Congress, Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, has cautioned critics and opposition members against making unguarded comments about Nigeria and its leadership. Speaking to journalists in Osogbo on Sunday, Oyintiloye described such actions as unpatriotic, particularly when they involve disparaging the country and its leadership in the name of politics.
The former lawmaker expressed concern over the consistent humiliation of Nigeria by its citizens, both at home and abroad, through unsubstantiated allegations and unguarded utterances. He noted that while the constitution guarantees freedom of speech and expression, this should not be used as an opportunity to employ uncivil language against the country and its leadership.
Oyintiloye advised that criticisms of government policies and programs should be expressed with civility and decorum, emphasizing the need for respect and dignity towards the nation’s leaders. He pointed out that Nigeria’s global image is suffering due to negative and unsubstantiated allegations made by critics and opposition members against the current administration.
The APC chieftain acknowledged that the country is facing challenges, which the administration is working to address. However, he stressed that making unguarded remarks about Nigeria by citizens living abroad, in the name of politics, is negatively affecting the country’s image and progress. Oyintiloye also noted that many Nigerians living in the country are guilty of similar actions, which can have far-reaching consequences.
He emphasized that the way Nigeria and its leadership are portrayed is a reflection of how the nation’s nationality is perceived globally. Oyintiloye cautioned that the internet never forgets, and individuals who make negative remarks about the country may eventually become victims of their own words. He encouraged Nigerians to adopt a culture of positivity and patriotism, similar to the American spirit of saying “God Bless America” regardless of the situation.
Oyintiloye lamented that many Nigerians living abroad are being subjected to investigations, harassment, and humiliation as a result of negative remarks made by individuals seeking to damage the country’s image. He urged critics and opposition members to look beyond politics and refrain from destroying the nation’s reputation with disparaging words. The APC chieftain expressed confidence that Nigeria will overcome its challenges, and citizens will soon be proud to be called Nigerians anywhere in the world.
