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Oyintiloye: Negative remarks about Tinubu, Nigeria undermine the country’s progress

Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun, has cautioned critics against making “unguarded remarks” about Nigeria and President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

Speaking with journalists on Sunday in Osogbo, Oyintiloye, a former member of the defunct APC presidential campaign council, described such comments as “unpatriotic” and damaging to the country’s global image.

He said while the constitution guarantees freedom of speech, it should not be an excuse to “use uncultured words against the country and its leadership”.

“There is no doubt that the country is passing through challenges which the current administration is doing its best to address,” Oyintiloye said.

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“But making unguided remarks about our dear country by Nigerians living abroad in the name of politics is affecting the image of the country negatively, and this is not good for our progress. Many people living in the country are also guilty of this.”

The former lawmaker said persistent negative commentary from high-profile Nigerians, both at home and abroad, paints the country in a bad light and undermines collective progress.

He said leaders should be accorded respect and dignity as representatives of the nation.

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Oyintiloye urged Nigerians to emulate the culture of Americans who, regardless of their situation, end statements with “God bless America”.

“The way we portray our country and its leadership is a reflection of how our nationality is treated around the world,” he added.

“Those behind this kind of act should remember that the internet never forgets. At the appropriate time, they may be victims of whatever negative remarks made against the country.

“Disparaging our country and its leadership will do no one good, but with prayers and positive collective efforts, we will overcome.”

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He added that some Nigerians abroad face harassment and investigations linked to negative portrayals of the country, adding that critics should look beyond politics and stop destroying Nigeria’s image.

He said the nation will eventually overcome its challenges, and “we will all be proud to be called Nigerians anywhere in the world”.

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