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By Stella Odueme
Israel said the attacks, allegedly involving online harassment, threats and physical confrontations, were aimed at silencing Nigerians who openly identify with or support the President and his administration.
In a statement issued on Saturday and s
by him in his capacity as APC National Youth Leader and member of the party’s National Working Committee, Israel accused some opposition elements, particularly individuals associated with the Obidient movement, of targeting Tinubu’s supporters, members of the creative industry and public officials.
He described the development as persecution rather than ordinary political disagreement, alleging that comedians, entertainers, creative professionals and ordinary citizens had faced intimidation for expressing support for the President.
The APC youth leader cited the incident in London on November 12, involving the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan, who was reportedly confronted by protesters after speaking at Chatham House on preparations for the 2027 general elections.
He also referred to the November 13 incident in Abuja, where some youths allegedly attempted to attack security operatives attached to President Tinubu’s convoy after the President observed Juma’at prayers at the Shehu Shagari Central Mosque in Garki.
Israel condemned both incidents, describing them as attempts to intimidate public officials and undermine democratic institutions.
He maintained that Nigeria was governed by the rule of law and not mob action, warning that attacks on the President, the First Lady, his convoy or his supporters would not be tolerated.
The APC chieftain also defended the activities of the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, particularly her interventions through the Renewed Hope Initiative, which he said had mobilised more than N100 billion in three years to support women, widows, schoolgirls, disaster victims and vulnerable households across the country.
On the administration's economic reforms, Israel acknowledged the difficulties Nigerians had experienced but insisted that the policies were laying the foundation for a stronger economy.
He cited improvements in foreign exchange liquidity and increased international spending limits on naira-denominated bank cards as evidence of progress.
According to him, Nigerians who voted for Tinubu in 2023 retain the constitutional right to support him again in the 2027 elections without fear of intimidation or harassment.
He stressed that democracy guarantees every citizen the freedom to associate with, defend and vote for the political candidate of their choice.
"Supporters of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will not be cowed," Israel declared, insisting that no amount of online harassment, physical intimidation or manufactured outrage would stop them from defending the administration.
He urged opposition groups to respect democratic principles and allow Nigerians to freely express their political preferences ahead of the 2027 general elections.