By Babafemi Ojudu
I seem to have struck gold. The “data boys” have now joined the chorus of praise, acknowledging the point I raised about the mischief in Sule Lamido’s distortion of the facts surrounding President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s role in the June 12 saga. But let’s be clear: I’m not here for applause or validation.
I say the truth—consistently—regardless of whether it aligns with the views of a friend or contradicts those of a foe. Objectivity, not loyalty, is my guiding principle. This is what journalism and persistent self education teaches me.
It’s ironic that those quick to attack others for holding a different view are often the ones who blindly embrace falsehood, so long as it supports their political or tribal narrative.
That mindset is the enemy of truth, growth, and ultimately, progress. The hallmark of a truly educated person is not the ability to shout others down, but the capacity to engage opposing viewpoints with reason and tolerance.
As philosopher John Stuart Mill once said, “The peculiar evil of silencing the expression of an opinion is, that it is robbing the human race… If the opinion is right, they are deprived of the opportunity of exchanging error for truth; if wrong, they lose, what is almost as great a benefit, the clearer perception and livelier impression of truth, produced by its collision with error.”
Let people speak. Let them express their truths. Respond with yours—armed with facts, not abuse—and allow the public to make informed judgments. You don’t persuade anyone by being hostile or intolerant. You only expose your own insecurity and, worse, you do a disservice to the very people or causes you claim to represent.
This should be a teachable moment. A society that fears honest debate and suppresses dissent is one that will stagnate. Democracy is not built on silence and conformity; it is sustained by reasoned disagreement and the courage to confront uncomfortable truths.
So yes, argue your case. But don’t shout down others trying to argue theirs. That’s not strength—it’s fear masquerading as power.
- Senator Ojudu was the Special Adviser on Political Matters to President Muhammadu Buhari
