President Bola Tinubu has denied accusations that he was involved in efforts to harm the political opposition, remarking that such claims were baseless, particularly given that he does not possess a firearm licence.
Speaking at an interfaith Iftar meal with senators at the Presidential Villa on Wednesday, the President addressed critics who he said were free to express their views. He specifically referenced allegations linking him to undermining opposition figures, noting the irony of the accusation concerning a weapon he neither owns nor is licensed to carry.
“Critics must talk; when they accused me of killing the opposition, I didn’t have a gun. I could have given myself a license when I have the authority,” Tinubu stated, highlighting the absurdity of the charge from his perspective.
The President also commented on political defections, stating he does not fault individuals for leaving what he described as a “sinking ship,” an analogy for the significant challenges facing Nigeria. He pointed to terrorism and banditry as primary security threats causing widespread disruption.
Tinubu urged political leaders to pursue national unity, aligning with the vision of Nigeria’s founding fathers. He emphasized that the country’s constitutional democracy is designed to foster cohesion through cooperation, not conflict. “It didn’t say that we should fight, it’s a good thing that we are working in harmony,” he remarked, praising instances of collaborative governance despite political differences.
The speech comes amid ongoing political tensions and severe security crises in Nigeria. By framing criticism within the context of a difficult national climate, Tinubu sought to pivot the conversation toward collective responsibility and institutional strength. His remarks underscore the administration’s focus on preserving democratic dialogue while confronting acute security and economic pressures.
The President’s appeal for unity and his direct rebuttal of personal accusations highlight the fraught relationship between the government and opposition factions. Observers note that such public disputations often reflect deeper struggles over political narrative and legitimacy in Nigeria’s competitive landscape. Tinubu’s call for harmony is positioned as a necessary step toward stabilizing the nation amid persistent threats from non-state armed groups and a strained economy.
