President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Wednesday reaffirmed his commitment to sustaining democracy and the rule of law in Nigeria as a lasting legacy.

Speaking at an inter-faith breaking of the fast with members of the National Working Committee of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the leadership of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) at the Presidential Villa, President Tinubu emphasized that national unity and stability depend on good governance.

He highlighted the importance of internal democracy within political parties, noting that direct primaries give party members better opportunities to select representatives at all levels of governance.

“Some of us had been bruised struggling for democracy. We were detained, we protested, we had street demonstrations, we went into exile, and we formed NADECO. I followed the leadership destiny that God has chosen for me. I am a die-hard democrat,” he said.

President Tinubu also assured party leaders of his commitment to free and fair elections. “I want democracy, and since democracy is back here, there’s a fundamental voluntariness that is enshrined, and I am extremely glad to listen to you,” he added.

The APC Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, commended the President for his leadership and pledged the party’s support for his vision for Nigeria.

IPAC Chairman Yusuf Dantalle appealed to the President to reconsider making the National Identity Number (NIN) a requirement for voter registration, warning that many eligible voters could be disenfranchised. He also called for the restoration of INEC’s financial support for political parties and highlighted a forthcoming movie, “Unbroken Democracy,” commemorating 26 years of democracy in Nigeria.