- Safiu Kehinde
President Bola Tinubu has harped on the need to embrace criticism as part of the requirements for democracy.
The President maintained that no one should bear the brunt of injustice for calling him names, stressing that democracy requires a fair degree of tolerance.
Tinubu made this known during his address at the joint session of the National Assembly on Thursday in commemoration of the June 12 Democracy Day.
While urging public office holders not to be afraid of unkind words melted against them, the President however maintained that malicious slander and libel will not be tolerated.
“Do not be afraid to hear an unkind word spoken against you. Some of the best advice a politician gets sometimes comes from his most ferocious opponents. We dare not seek silence because the imposed silence of repressed voices breeds chaos and ill will, not the harmonics of democracy in the long term.
“While malicious slander and libel should not go unattended, no one should bear the brunt of injustice for merely writing a bad report about me or calling me names.
“Democracy requires a fair degree of tolerance for harsh words and stinging insults. Call me names, call me whatever you will, and I will still call upon democracy to defend your right to do so. Mr. Senate President, Mr. Speaker, Distinguished Senators and Honourable Members.” He said.
The President further expressed optimism in the country’s democracy while noting that Nigeria remains strong regardless of its imperfections.
”Our nation is not perfect, but it is strong. Our democracy is not invincible, but it is alive. And this means our dream of a prosperous, happy nation is still within reach and worth fighting for.” he said.
Tinubu reaffirmed his commitment to economic productivity and implementation of reform policies such as the tax and fiscal policy.
”Our administration is fully committed to boosting the economy’s productive base. Through investment in critical infrastructure, roads, expansion of port operations, rail, and power we are creating a new environment in which industry and manufacturing can thrive.
“Our tax and fiscal policy reforms will streamline tax administration and eliminate burdensome and multiple taxes enabling our industrialists and entrepreneurs to operate in a more conducive environment.
“Governance must work and deliver value to the people. As part of our tax reforms, we have provided small businesses with an exemption and established the Office of the Tax Ombudsman to ensure transparency and protect taxpayer rights.
“Digital tools now help us track performance and reduce waste. The Diaspora Bond and Non-Resident BVN are bringing. Nigerians abroad into the national development fold.” the President added.