President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reiterated his commitment to democratic principles, assuring Nigerians that no one was arrested or threatened during the recent nationwide strike called by Organised Labour.
In a speech marking Democracy Day, President Tinubu emphasized the importance of cooperation and compromise in resolving conflicts.
He stated that his government chose to engage in dialogue rather than confrontation, ensuring a peaceful resolution to the strike.
The President’s statement came in response to criticisms from government officials, including the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, and the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio.
They accused Labour of committing treasonable felony and economic sabotage.
However, Labour rejected these allegations, describing them as baseless and deeply troubling for Nigerian patriots and democracy advocates.
The organization pointed out that corruption and abuse of power by the political elite have been a major obstacle to Nigeria’s progress.
A human rights lawyer, Femi Falana, SAN, also weighed in on the controversy, advising the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, that Labour had not committed any offence.In his speech, President Tinubu reaffirmed his commitment to democracy and the principles of cooperation and compromise.
He emphasized that his government has always sought to engage in reasoned discussion and principled compromise with Labour and other stakeholders.”I will always listen to the people and will never turn my back on you,” he vowed. “As we continue to reform the economy, I shall always listen to the people and will never turn my back on you.”
The President also announced that his government has negotiated in good faith with Labour on a new national minimum wage and will soon present an executive bill to the National Assembly to enshrine what has been agreed upon.
The President’s commitment to democracy and cooperation is a testament to his leadership style and dedication to Nigeria’s progress.
