Nigerian President Bola Tinubu used his Democracy Day broadcast to deliver a blunt warning to bandits, kidnappers and sponsors of terror, ordering them to surrender or face the full force of the Nigerian state. The message was among the most striking parts of an address marking the country's commemoration of June 12.
Tinubu told those behind the violence that the window for surrender would not remain open forever. He warned that no mercy would be shown to those who, in his words, trade in the blood of Nigerians, framing the fight against insecurity as a central test of the government's authority.
In the roughly 23-minute broadcast, the president began by congratulating Nigerians on the feat of an unbroken stretch of democratic rule. He acknowledged the role of past leaders in keeping the country united, tying the day's celebration to the long struggle that produced the current democratic era.
As part of the commemoration, Tinubu announced national awards to honour Nigerians who played significant roles in the June 12 struggle. The recognition placed the heroes of that fight at the centre of the day, linking the sacrifices of the past to the democracy Nigerians mark each year.
The president also looked ahead to forthcoming elections in Ekiti and Osun states, describing them as another opportunity to deepen democracy. He urged security agencies and all political parties to ensure the polls are peaceful and credible, warning that democracy fails when citizens lose faith in the process.
Insecurity featured heavily in his remarks, with Tinubu calling on the armed forces and other security agencies to do more to protect the country. The appeal underscored the pressure his administration faces over banditry, kidnapping and other threats that continue to affect communities across Nigeria.
Alongside the security message, the president outlined his administration's efforts to strengthen the economy. Taken together, the broadcast sought to balance a celebration of Nigeria's democratic journey with a firm signal on security and a defence of the reforms his government is pursuing.