President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reiterated his commitment to fostering a democratic culture that encourages inclusive governance and robust political engagement, regardless of party affiliations.
Represented by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, at the launch of former Jigawa State Governor Sule Lamido’s autobiography “Being True to Myself” in Abuja, Tinubu emphasized that political opposition should be seen not as enmity, but as a healthy contest of ideas in a pluralistic society.
“Every citizen, regardless of party affiliation, has a seat at the table of national discourse,” the president stated. He hailed Lamido as a bold, consistent, and principled figure whose political journey reflects Nigeria’s broader democratic development.
The autobiography, which took over a decade to complete, was described by Tinubu as a “celebration of a life defined by courage, consistency, and commitment to democratic ideals.” He encouraged other political leaders to emulate Lamido’s example by documenting their experiences for the benefit of future generations and national political history.
Despite Lamido’s frequent criticism of his administration, Tinubu acknowledged the former governor’s indispensable role in shaping Nigeria’s political landscape. “Alhaji Sule Lamido remains one of the strong pillars of Nigeria’s political evolution,” he added.
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Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, who was also present, praised Lamido for his contributions as Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs during his tenure. Obasanjo highlighted how Lamido’s diplomacy was instrumental in Nigeria hosting the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, a milestone that marked Nigeria’s acceptance back into the international fold after years of military rule.
“Such a magnificent job, that within three years of our coming to government, the Queen of Britain and the Queen of the Commonwealth came to Nigeria,” Obasanjo noted, calling Lamido a man of admirable character.
Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar, represented by former INEC Chairman Prof. Attahiru Jega, described the autobiography as insightful and instructive. He commended Lamido for courageously documenting his life, offering readers a vivid look at Nigeria’s governance, politics, and history through a personal lens.
“This book enriches our understanding of the trials, tribulations, and transformation of Nigeria’s political space,” Abubakar said.
The event was attended by a wide array of political dignitaries including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi, former Senate Presidents Ken Nnamani and Anyim Pius Anyim, Governor Umar Namadi of Jigawa, and Governor Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State, among others.
The gathering served not only as a book launch but as a rare bipartisan moment, underscoring the importance of shared political history and unity in diversity in Nigeria’s evolving democracy.
NAN
