‘I Won’t Be Bullied Out’ — Tinubu Fires Back at Opposition

‘I Won’t Be Bullied Out’ — Tinubu Fires Back at Opposition

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has pushed back against mounting criticism from opposition figures, declaring that no amount of pressure would force him to abandon his policies or retreat from office.

Speaking on Thursday at the State House in Abuja during a meeting with members of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors, the President struck a defiant tone, insisting he remains committed to the reform agenda of his administration despite growing discontent in some quarters.

“They want to scare me off? It’s a lie,” Tinubu said. “I’ve been through this path before, and if I have to come back over and over again, I’ll do the same thing.”

The meeting brought together coordinators of the political mobilisation group drawn from across the country’s geopolitical zones, as part of efforts to deepen grassroots support for the administration’s policies ahead of future elections.

Tinubu acknowledged the challenges that accompanied his emergence as president, describing both the party primaries and the general election as difficult contests. He, however, maintained that the current phase of governance requires resilience and determination.

“During the primaries that got me here, it was tough. During the election, it was tough. Now that I’m here, all I can promise is that I won’t give up,” he told the gathering.

His remarks come amid sustained criticism from opposition politicians and civil society groups who have questioned the pace and impact of ongoing economic reforms, with some calling for a change in direction.

The President, however, framed his policies as necessary adjustments to longstanding structural issues, arguing that leadership requires the courage to make difficult decisions.

“There is no better place than your own country, and no one can build it except you,” he said, urging Nigerians to remain committed to national development.

Tinubu also emphasised respect for democratic institutions, particularly the judiciary, warning against any tendency to undermine the rule of law.

“We cannot submit to disobedience of lawful court orders. We must embrace the judiciary, whether it favours us or not,” he stated, adding that adherence to constitutional principles remains central to national stability.

Reflecting on his administration’s direction, the President described his leadership as a continuation of efforts to reposition the country, noting his political alignment with his predecessor, Muhammadu Buhari.

“I didn’t have to look back because I took over from myself,” he said, suggesting continuity in governance philosophy while acknowledging the need for corrections where necessary.

He also used the occasion to rally support from the Renewed Hope Ambassadors, urging them to take the message of his administration to communities across the country and sustain engagement at the grassroots.

“This is an opportunity of a lifetime to break the shackles of poverty and ignorance and ensure democracy survives,” Tinubu added.

Among those present at the meeting were Vice President Kashim Shettima, Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma, Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani, and other top figures of the ruling party.

The President said he had carefully listened to reports from the group’s coordinators and expressed confidence in their ability to mobilise wider support for government policies.

“I’m inspired, I’m ready. I’m grateful to all of you,” he said.

His comments are likely to further shape the political atmosphere as the country gradually looks toward the next electoral cycle, with debates over governance, reforms and leadership expected to intensify in the coming months.