On Democracy Day, standing before the nation to mark 26 years since Nigeria's return to civilian rule, President Bola Tinubu delivered a pointed warning to armed groups across the country: surrender, or face the full force of the state.
The address came on May 29, a date that holds deep significance in Nigeria's political memory, commemorating the end of military rule in 1999. Tinubu used the moment not just for reflection but for a direct message to those who continue to threaten peace and security in different parts of the country.
The ultimatum signals a hardening of tone from the presidency on issues of insecurity, which have remained one of the most pressing challenges facing the administration. Whether that tone translates into action is the question Nigerians will be watching closely in the weeks ahead.
Originally published by BBC Africa.