Democracy Under Threat: Why Tinubu Must Defend the Freedoms He Once Fought For By Faduri Oluwadare Joseph
In a recent address on Faduri Oluwadare Joseph YouTube channel, , Faduri Oluwadare Joseph — also known as FADOJOE, a presidential aspirant under the Labour Party and founder of the Rescue Movement and the F-Planet — shared deep concerns about the state of governance, law, and democracy in Nigeria.
This message is directed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the leader of our nation. As someone who once stood for freedom, justice, and the rule of law, it is troubling to see Nigeria now drifting away from the very principles you once fought for.
From the top to the grassroots, lawlessness is creeping into the fabric of our society. Ministers and political office holders, instead of leading by example, are beginning to act without regard for due process or the constitution. A democracy is meant to be a government of the people, by the people, and for the people. It thrives on transparency, accountability, and adherence to the rule of law — not intimidation or abuse of power.
The recent actions by David Umahi, the Minister of Works, are a case in point. Property owners and investors are now living in fear, as projects and investments are being destroyed under the guise of development, often without proper legal backing or consultation. This not only erodes public trust but also discourages investment in our economy.
Even more disturbing is the unjust arrest of Nigerian activist Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan by Economic and Financial Crimes and Commission(EFCC). He was picked up and held for 72 hours without any clear charge or due process. If indeed he broke any law, the proper approach should have been an invitation to respond to allegations. Arresting him like a criminal, without explanation, is not just a violation of his rights — it is a blow to the democracy we claim to uphold.
Contrast this with the case of Yahaya Bello, former Governor of Kogi State, who is alleged to have looted over 80 billion naira. Till today, there has been no similar urgency in pursuing justice. This selective application of the law raises serious questions about fairness and credibility.
Why is it that youth voices are being silenced while powerful politicians operate above the law? Is this the democracy we fought for? It is becoming increasingly difficult for Nigerians to speak freely without fear of retaliation. Arresting citizens for expressing dissent or criticism is not governance — it is tyranny in disguise.
Mr. President, this is not the Nigeria we dreamed of. As someone who once led battles for free speech, for freedom of movement, and for the rule of law, we urge you to reflect on the direction your administration is heading. Power is fleeting. History will remember what leaders do in times like this.
All over the world, especially in democracies like the United States, presidents face public criticism daily. That does not justify unlawful arrests. Freedom of speech is a pillar of any functioning democracy. Silencing voices today only endangers the peace of tomorrow.
It is time for a reset. Government appointees and ministers must be held accountable. The rule of law must not be optional — it must be sacred. As a nation, we are walking a dangerous path. If unchecked, this descent into authoritarianism may lead to consequences that future generations might find impossible to fix.
We are not enemies of the state — we are patriots who want Nigeria to work. We believe in a country where laws are obeyed, where voices are heard, and where justice is blind to status or power. Let us remember that power comes and goes. Let our leaders strive to leave a legacy built on justice, not fear.
Nigeria deserves better — and together, we can make it better. But it starts with obeying the law, respecting the people, and protecting our democracy.
I am Faduri Oluwadare Joseph, founder of the Rescue Movement for a New Nigeria. Let us rise together to build a Nigeria that respects the rule of law — a country that future generations can be proud of.
