June 12: Presidential Spokesperson Insists Tinubu Respects Dissent, Has Not Cracked Down on Demonstrators or Political Foes

Temitope Ajayi, the Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to President Bola Tinubu, made a robust defence of the administration's dedication to upholding democratic principles and safeguarding the rights of opposition voices on Thursday.

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Ajayi, speaking on Vanguard's Politics Hub, asserted that the government has not impeded civil liberties or targeted its critics, underscoring the administration's commitment to democratic freedoms.

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He emphasized that the administration has adhered to fundamental democratic principles, highlighting that democracy guarantees freedom of choice and expression, and that these freedoms remain intact under the current government, which has been in power for the last three years.

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Ajayi also noted that President Tinubu has consistently demonstrated tolerance for dissenting views, stating that the president would never take actions that could undermine or destroy democracy in the country.

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He posed a rhetorical question, asking if anyone has ever heard of President Tinubu retaliating against individuals who criticize him daily, in an effort to illustrate the president's commitment to democratic values.

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Ajayi drew attention to President Tinubu's personal history, describing him as a key figure in the development of Nigeria's democracy, who had even gone into exile for the cause and put his life at risk.

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The presidential aide affirmed that the Tinubu administration is dedicated to enriching, expanding, and promoting democracy, ensuring its continued growth and flourishing.

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In addressing recent public protests, Ajayi argued that the government has not utilized state security forces to suppress dissent, emphasizing that President Tinubu has never employed the police or DSS operatives to harass protesters or those who insult him.