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 President Tinubu Urges Nigerians to Reject Falsehood and Defamation, Defends Responsible Free Speech

Published: July 3, 2026

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has renewed his call for responsible public discourse, urging Nigerians to avoid spreading falsehoods, misinformation, and defamatory statements while exercising their constitutional right to free speech.

Speaking during a recent public address, the Nigerian leader stressed that democracy thrives on criticism and open debate, but warned that deliberate falsehoods and defamatory claims undermine national unity, damage reputations, and weaken public trust in institutions. �

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According to President Tinubu, freedom of expression should not be interpreted as a license to spread unverified allegations or intentionally mislead the public. He emphasized that constructive criticism is an essential part of democratic governance, but it should be grounded in facts rather than misinformation. �

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The President also encouraged journalists, political actors, social media users, and other public commentators to uphold professional and ethical standards by verifying information before publication or sharing it online. He noted that responsible communication is critical to maintaining peace, protecting democratic institutions, and fostering national development. �

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His remarks come amid growing concerns over the rapid spread of false information across digital platforms and increasing public debate about the balance between freedom of expression and protection against defamation. The comments have generated discussion among legal experts, media practitioners, and civil society groups regarding the responsibilities that accompany free speech in a democratic society. �

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President Tinubu reiterated that disagreement with government policies is legitimate and should remain part of democratic engagement. However, he maintained that criticism should be based on verified facts rather than fabricated claims intended to mislead or damage reputations. �

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As conversations surrounding misinformation continue both in Nigeria and globally, the President's message underscores the importance of responsible communication, fact-checking, and respectful public debate as essential pillars of a healthy democracy. �

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