Inside Tinubu’s Mind: How Bola Ahmed Tinubu Responds To Critics Revealed

He accused opposition politicians of contradicting democratic principles while publicly claiming to defend them.

Tinubu made the remarks on Tuesday while receiving a delegation of political leaders from Enugu State, led by Governor Peter Mbah, at the Aso Rock Villa in Abuja.

According to a statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the president maintained that democracy in Nigeria would remain strong despite what he described as attempts at intimidation.

He said, “Democracy will survive, despite all the intimidation. Ignore it, as I advise myself; stay focused. When you are succeeding and they are angry, leave them in their corner.”

Tinubu also criticised previous policy decisions, particularly in the power sector, arguing that some past reforms had failed to deliver meaningful results and should not distract from ongoing efforts to rebuild the country.

He stated that his administration remains focused on delivering development and improving the welfare of citizens, despite criticism from political opponents.

The president further argued that some critics do not genuinely believe in the democratic values they promote, urging leaders to remain focused on governance rather than distractions.

“We stay on our lanes. We stay focused. We build our life on people, welfare, prosperity, and the promise of today and tomorrow,” he said.

Tinubu also defended his administration’s economic direction, stressing the importance of long-term planning in national development. He noted that one of Nigeria’s past challenges has been the attempt to fund long-term projects with short-term resources.

He added that the country has yet to fully embrace a structured long-term development strategy.

Highlighting Nigeria’s economic position, the president said the country continues to play a leading role in Africa’s growth and potential, crediting collective contributions from stakeholders.

He emphasised that national development is a shared responsibility involving all levels of government—federal, state, and local—urging greater attention to grassroots governance.