President Bola Tinubu has criticized the planned nationwide protests, asserting that their sponsors do not genuinely care for Nigeria. Speaking at the Presidential Villa on Thursday during a meeting with Islamic leaders led by Sheikh Bala Lau, Tinubu condemned the protest organizers, claiming they lack true patriotism.
Tinubu, while not naming specific individuals, accused the protest leaders of holding alternative passports and conducting their meetings virtually from various locations worldwide. “The sponsors of protests do not love our country. They have no love for the nation. They do not understand citizenship. They have alternative passports,” he said, according to a statement from presidential spokesman Ajuri Ngelale.
The President expressed concerns that the protests, driven by anger and hatred, could escalate into violence and further harm Nigeria’s progress. He warned against the dangers of “premature politics” and the risks of allowing such movements to gain traction. Tinubu emphasized the importance of addressing current challenges, such as hunger, rather than fueling conflict. “We do not want to turn Nigeria into Sudan,” he remarked, stressing the need for caution in the political sphere.
In addition to his remarks on the protests, President Tinubu addressed concerns about the integrity of his administration. He reassured the delegation that his campaign was self-financed, free from external influence or debt to any individuals or groups. “I have no cabal. I have no sponsors. The money I spent on the elections was my personal fortune,” he stated. He acknowledged facing significant obstacles, including locked banks, but attributed his success to divine intervention.
Tinubu underscored his commitment to good governance and emphasized that maintaining a clear conscience is crucial in defending against corruption. He highlighted the importance of focusing on the future and setting a positive example for future generations. “What should be uppermost in our minds is the future of our children. We have a lot to teach them on what it takes to be a good citizen and what it takes to be a responsible citizen,” he concluded.
The President’s statements reflect his stance on the current political climate and his administration’s approach to navigating the nation’s challenges….Seē _ Morē
