Tinubu Breaks Silence: “They Want Me Dead,” Blames Powerful Cabals For Insecurity

Tinubu made the remarks on Wednesday, May 20, during the public presentation of the book “The NADECO Story” written by Chief Ayo Opadokun in Lagos. The event also included the recognition of key figures who played roles in Nigeria’s pro-democracy struggle under the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) between 1994 and 1998.

The President was represented at the occasion by former Ogun State Governor, Chief Olusegun Osoba, who delivered his message.

According to Osoba, Tinubu acknowledged that his reforms in the foreign exchange and petroleum sectors had disrupted long-standing interests that benefited from the old system. He noted that the President was aware of alleged attempts by some groups to destabilise the country in reaction to the policy changes.

Osoba quoted the President as saying that those who profited from practices such as foreign exchange round-tripping and fuel subsidy payments were unhappy with the reforms and would go as far as expressing extreme hostility toward him.

He added that Tinubu remained determined to continue with the economic restructuring despite resistance, insisting that his administration would not back down from its reform agenda.

Tinubu, in the message, reaffirmed that the removal of fuel subsidy and foreign exchange reforms were necessary steps to stabilise the economy, even though they had triggered public hardship and debate across the country. The government maintains that the policies are aimed at long-term economic recovery.

Osoba also conveyed the President’s appreciation to NADECO members and other pro-democracy activists for their contributions to Nigeria’s return to democratic rule, noting that their sacrifices would not be forgotten.

He further stated that Tinubu identified the economy and national security as the major focus areas of his administration, expressing concern over rising security challenges spreading into the South-West.

According to him, the President said efforts had led to a narrowing gap between official and parallel market exchange rates, adding that the naira had performed better than earlier projections by critics.

Tinubu also expressed optimism about his administration’s future performance, saying he would deliver better results if re-elected for a second term, while reaffirming his commitment to ongoing reforms despite opposition from those affected by the changes.