SUNTV Global Channel | September 4, 2026
President Bola Tinubu has said Nigerians should be able to criticise or publicly attack him without fear of government retaliation, describing freedom of expression and press freedom as important pillars of democracy.
Tinubu made the statement on Thursday in Abuja during the centenary celebration of Daily Times of Nigeria Limited, where the Nigerian Grand Book was unveiled and the Times Heroes Awards were presented.
The President was represented at the event by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume.
According to the President, citizens’ ability to openly criticise those in power without facing reprisals demonstrates his administration’s commitment to democratic principles and freedom of the press.
Speaking through Akume, Tinubu said:
“Let us admit openly that under this government, you can insult and attack the President and still go to bed without midnight troubles.”
He further acknowledged the significant role played by the media in Nigeria’s democratic development, noting that many of the country’s present challenges were rooted in structural problems that had accumulated over several decades.
Tinubu said his administration’s reform agenda was focused on addressing these underlying economic and institutional challenges rather than providing temporary solutions.
He listed strengthening Nigeria’s fiscal position, improving productivity, attracting investment, developing infrastructure, strengthening institutions and creating opportunities for young Nigerians among the objectives of his administration.
The President said the broader aim was to position Nigeria to compete more effectively in the global economy.
Daily Times Marks 100 Years
Tinubu also congratulated Daily Times on reaching its 100th anniversary, describing the milestone as evidence of the newspaper’s resilience and enduring relevance to Nigeria.
He said the publication had gone beyond reporting events to become an important participant in documenting and shaping the country’s history.
The President unveiled the Nigerian Grand Book, an initiative aimed at preserving Nigeria’s institutional memory and documenting the contributions of individuals who have played significant roles in the country’s development.
He said the publication would help Nigerians tell their own story, learn from the past and prepare for the future.
Tinubu also raised concerns over Nigeria’s projected population growth, saying the country’s population could reach approximately 450 million by 2050, with major implications for food security, water resources and national planning.
Sowore Case Raises Questions Over Freedom of Expression
Tinubu’s comments come against the backdrop of the Department of State Services’ prosecution of human rights activist Omoyele Sowore, who was charged after describing the President as a “criminal” on social media.
The case, initiated in 2025, initially involved Meta and X, but the companies were later removed from the proceedings, leaving Sowore as the sole defendant.
Sowore pleaded not guilty and described the prosecution as politically motivated. He was granted bail under strict conditions, including a ₦200 million bond and the surrender of his passport.
The DSS had argued that its responsibility extended beyond protecting the President physically, claiming that its mandate also covered protection against what it described as “psychological attacks.”
The agency also raised concerns that Sowore’s statements could affect public order and undermine the presidency.
However, with the 2027 presidential election approaching, the DSS has moved to suspend the case, citing concerns that continuing the proceedings could interfere with Sowore’s constitutional right to contest the election.
The contrasting developments have renewed debate over the limits of free speech, criticism of public officials and the role of security agencies in protecting state institutions.
While Tinubu’s latest remarks project an image of tolerance toward criticism, the Sowore case continues to fuel discussions about how freedom of expression is exercised and protected in practice in Nigeria.
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