- President Tinubu has stressed that freedom of expression does not include the right to defame others and that press freedom should not be used to spread misinformation.
- The statement has generated mixed reactions online, with supporters describing it as a call for responsible journalism and critics questioning how such principles might be applied in practice.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has stated that while freedom of expression and press freedom remain fundamental democratic rights, they should not be used as a cover for defamation or the spread of misleading information.
Speaking on the importance of responsible public discourse, the President said, “Freedom of expression is not freedom to defame; freedom of the press is not freedom to mislead.”
His remarks have sparked widespread reactions across social media, with some Nigerians agreeing that freedom of speech comes with responsibility, while others expressed concern that such statements could be used to justify restrictions on criticism of the government.
Reactions
@ObutorWest: “That’s one is your business sir. Your administration is ruining my youth and am honestly tired already. Please resign so you can go home and enjoy your old age in peace.”
@OLUAYEScotland: “Many Obediots are guilty of this including their principal. They should all be picked up and charged.”
@Gloria8le: “Freedom of expression is not freedom to defame, true. But selective silence when it suits power is also not neutrality.”
@sblinkcreations: “He’s cooking something. His minions will use this phrase to justify it when it’s done!”
@Oluwarichie100: “Na everyday baba dey drop pickup lines 😂”
@inis_heritage: “Still, whatever evil they said you did, best believe you did worse.”
@Omomoore22: “That is just the truth. Make they take the advice serious o before DSS go come after press way mislead and defame the government.”
@EricKAliya: “The question is, is misleading a crime?”
@tajAare: “As if no be una mislead us during Jo’s presidency.”
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