As Nigeria commemorates 26 years of uninterrupted democracy, political analyst Peter Obonyilo Enenche has described President Bola Tinubu as Nigeria's foremost living democratic hero, stating that no living Nigerian possesses comparable democratic credentials.
Enenche, who is known for his admiration of President Tinubu and often brands the Tinubu broken-chain caps at events he hosts, highlighted the President's extensive contributions to Nigeria's democratic journey in a congratulatory message marking Tinubu's two years in office.
"President Tinubu is a man of many strengths, and a chunk of those strengths have been used to deepen democratic elements in Nigeria," Enenche wrote in his message.
The political analyst emphasized Tinubu's role in Chief M.K.O. Abiola's presidential campaign, describing it as a pivotal moment when "a nation's thumbprints pointed towards hope that never saw the light of day."
According to Enenche, Tinubu later "became the face of the struggle to enthrone democracy" and went into exile while continuing to advocate for democratic governance in Nigeria, despite the risks associated with opposing military rule.
Tinubu's Democratic Legacy
Enenche outlined several instances that he believes demonstrate Tinubu's democratic credentials, including his tenure as governor of Lagos State, which he described as "the richest state in Nigeria in terms of commerce."
"As governor, he fought and won a war against undemocratic elements when the tenure of a sitting president was about to be extended through constitutional amendment," Enenche stated.
He also credited Tinubu with fighting legal battles to "reclaim mandates and restore governors and others against the wishes of the ruling party" and building political bridges across Nigeria.
"He is currently taking life away from parochial structures that have crippled our existence as a nation," Enenche added, before declaring Tinubu "the Living Democratic Hero of Nigeria" as the country celebrates its 26th anniversary of returning to democratic governance.
The message concluded with a wish for President Tinubu's success in his ongoing efforts to strengthen democracy and governance across the nation.