President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’ s recent statement regarding the assassination attempt on former U. S. President Donald Trump has sparked significant backlash from Nigerians on social media.
On Sunday, Tinubu took to his official X handle to condemn the violent incident at Trump’ s campaign rally in Pennsylvania. He described the attack as ” distasteful” and ” beyond the pale of democratic norms. ” Tinubu emphasized that ” violence has no place in democracy” and extended his sympathies to Trump, the family of the deceased, and those injured in the attack. He also expressed Nigeria’ s solidarity with the United States during this troubling time....Click Here To Continue Reading>>

Tinubu’ s exact words were: ” The attack on former President Donald Trump is distasteful and goes beyond the pale of democratic norms. Violence has no place in democracy. I extend my sympathies to the former President and wish him relief. I also condole with the family of the deceased and those wounded and wish them a quick recovery. Nigeria stands in solidarity with the United States of America at this time. ”

Despite Tinubu’ s seemingly empathetic and diplomatic tone, his comments ignited a firestorm on social media. Many Nigerians questioned his stance on democracy and violence, pointing to various instances of unrest and political tension within Nigeria itself. Some users accused Tinubu of hypocrisy, suggesting that his administration has not adequately addressed issues of violence and insecurity in the country.

One user wrote, ” Tinubu, maybe you should focus on the violence and lack of democratic norms in Nigeria before commenting on the U. S. situation. What about the violence during elections here? ”
Another commented, ” It’ s ironic that Tinubu is talking about democracy when so many Nigerians feel unsafe and unheard in their own country. How about ensuring safety and democracy at home first? ”
Others expressed frustration over the perceived prioritization of international incidents over domestic issues. ” While our president is quick to condemn violence abroad, we are still waiting for strong actions and words against kidnappings, banditry, and electoral violence here in Nigeria, ” one tweet read.
However, there were also those who defended Tinubu’ s statement, arguing that as a leader, it is appropriate to address significant global events and express solidarity with other nations facing crises.
The incident highlights the complex and often contentious relationship between Nigerian citizens and their government, particularly concerning issues of security, democracy, and leadership priorities. As Tinubu’ s administration continues to navigate these challenges, the reactions to his statement serve as a reminder of the ongoing scrutiny and expectations from the Nigerian populace.