President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced his intention to seek a second term in office, rejecting claims that rising insecurity in Nigeria will force him out of power. Speaking on Wednesday, April 29, while receiving Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang and other stakeholders, Tinubu reaffirmed his determination to counter opposition allegations over the country's security challenges.
Tinubu Vows to Stay Despite Security Challenges
According to reports from The Punch, Tinubu stated that those using insecurity against his administration are aiding the agenda of his political opponents and hostile forces. He said: "You are playing to the hand of agents, including my own enemies, who want to use insecurity to get rid of me."
Tinubu, who assumed office in May 2023, is expected to complete his first term in 2027, when Nigerians will again vote in the presidential election. He described himself as a determined politician, saying: "I'm a very stubborn politician. I just refuse to go. And I will campaign for my second term."
The president's remarks come amid renewed concerns over attacks by armed groups, kidnappings, and killings in several parts of the country. Opposition figures and civil society groups have called for stronger action from the Federal Government. Tinubu has repeatedly defended his administration's efforts, stating that security agencies are being supported to tackle threats and restore stability nationwide.
Plateau Crisis: Tinubu Orders Action Plan
During the meeting, President Tinubu urged political, traditional, and community leaders in Plateau State to adopt a concrete action plan to end recurring violence. The Federal Government also approved N2 billion relief for victims of recent attacks. According to The Guardian, at a three-hour interactive session with a 32-member Plateau delegation at the State House, Abuja, the president called on stakeholders to move beyond rhetoric and agree on practical, implementable steps to secure lasting peace.
Tinubu directed the delegation, led by Governor Mutfwang, to revisit previous government white papers on the crises and harmonise workable recommendations for immediate implementation. He emphasized the need for a collaborative approach to address the root causes of violence in the state.
Reactions and Context
The president's statement has drawn mixed reactions from political analysts and the public. Some view it as a strong show of leadership, while others question the effectiveness of his security policies. Tinubu's administration has faced criticism over the handling of insecurity, but he remains focused on his re-election bid.
Earlier, Legit.ng reported that Tinubu warned against the rise of social media misinformation, urging Nigerian editors to champion responsible reporting to protect national cohesion and democratic values.
This development underscores the ongoing political dynamics ahead of the 2027 general elections, with Tinubu positioning himself as a resilient leader despite the challenges.
