Twitter has agreed to Elon Musk’s $44 billion takeover bid.

In a statement, the company says its board of directors has accepted Musk’s plan to buy Twitter and to take the social media company private.

In a Tweet, Musk says he hopes even his worst critics remain on Twitter for the sake of free speech.

I hope that even my worst critics remain on Twitter, because that is what free speech means

— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) April 25, 2022

The deal will see Tesla’s founder shell out more than 54 bucks a share.

The deal is expected to close later this year.

**With files from Katie Nicholls.