President Tinubu Affirms Democratic Credentials and Divine Mandate During Inter-Faith Briefing

President Bola Tinubu reaffirms his "die-hard democrat" status and divine mandate, while IPAC calls for a review of NIN requirements in the 2026 Electoral Law.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 12, 2026, 7:20 AM EDT

Source: The information in this article was sourced from Peoples Gazette

A Divine Mandate Rooted in Democratic Struggle

Speaking to the National Working Committee of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) on Wednesday, President Bola Tinubu declared that his ascent to the presidency was ordained by God. Addressing attendees during an inter-faith breaking of the Islamic fast in Abuja, the President used the occasion to contrast his current leadership with his past as a pro-democracy activist. He referenced his history with NADECO, citing periods of detention and exile as evidence of his lifelong commitment to the "sustainability of democracy" in the continent's most populous nation.

Advocating for Direct Primaries and Institutional Reform

A central theme of the President’s address was the need to strengthen internal party democracy through the adoption of direct primaries. Tinubu argued that this method provides a more transparent and inclusive platform for party members to select their representatives, thereby building more "reliable electoral institutions." He emphasized that his administration would not stand in the way of either the majority or the minority, asserting that the "sweetness of democracy" lies in the ability of all voices to be heard within the framework of the rule of law.

IPAC Challenges NIN Requirements and Indirect Nominations

The event also served as a forum for political stakeholders to voice concerns over recent legislative changes. Yusuf Dantalle, Chairman of IPAC, urged the President to reconsider the mandatory inclusion of the National Identity Number (NIN) for voter registration. Dantalle argued that this requirement poses a significant risk of disenfranchising eligible citizens who may lack access to the national identity system. Furthermore, IPAC called for the removal of indirect nomination modes from the newly signed 2026 Electoral Law, advocating instead for a return to INEC-funded support for political parties to ensure a level playing field.