At separate ceremonies across the country to mark the 30th anniversary of the annulment of June 12, 1993 presidential election won by billionaire businesman Moshood Abiola yesterday, governors and activists extolled the virtues of martyrs of democracy, particularly Chief Abiola. They also called on Nigerians to support the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu
- Nigerians reignited June 12 by voting for Tinubu, Shettima, says Sanwo-Olu
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu said Nigerians reignited the spirit of June 12, 1993, presidential election during the recent general election when they voted for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima; the same way they set aside ethnicity and religion to vote for the late Chief Moshood Abiola and Babagana Kingibe of the defunct Social Democratic Party (SDP) in 1993.
Governor Sanwo-Olu, who made the remark yesterday at an event in Ikeja, the Lagos State capital organised by the Alliance for Yoruba Democratic Movements (AYDM), a coalition of 121 pan Yoruba groups, to mark the 30th anniversary of the election, said by voting for Tinubu and Shettima Nigerians de-emphasised the divisive issues of ethnicity and religion in leadership recruitment.
In a speech read on his behalf by the state’s Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat, the governor said advised them to remain steadfast and continue to have faith in the “Renewed Hope” agenda of the All Progressives Congress (APC), because he believes “President Tinubu will put in his best to fulfil his promises to all Nigerians”.
Sanwo-Olu said Nigerians must look beyond religion and ethnicity when it comes to elections for the country to move forward. He added: “As such, let us take religion and ethnicity out of our political equation.
He said the June 12 celebration this year is significant in the sense that one of the iconic figures of the June 12 struggle is currently the President of Nigeria. He said those calling for military rule appear to have little understanding of the importance of democracy, adding that the overwhelming population of Nigerians have chosen democracy as the best form of government in line with global best practices.
The governor also paid glowing tribute to the patriots who fought for the restoration of democracy in the country, particularly those that lost their lives in the process, adding that Lagos was the epicentre of the protest against the annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election.
Also speaking at the occasion, a chieftain of the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), Chief Ayo Opadokun said he believes President Tinubu will meet the aspirations of Nigerians.
Opadokun described artisan groups, hunters unions, vigilante groups and representatives of Yorubas in Kwara, Kogi and the Ivory Coast, who were present at the occasion, as “the pillars of democracy”.
The guest speaker, Mr Adewale Adeoye said the annulment of the June 12 election was the consequence of the power struggle in Nigeria and that the struggle had political, economic and ethnic colouration.
Adeoye urged Southwest states to strengthen regional integration and solidarity in pursuing the common good. He added: “Lagos should open up new frontiers of cooperation with Benin, Togo and Ghana. Sokoto State collaborates with Niger Republic in many areas while Borno State has many areas of collaboration with Chad and Cameroon. More importantly, the neighbouring countries around Lagos have Yoruba indigenous people.”
Nigerians praise Tinubu on nationwide address
Nigerians have applauded President Bola Tinubu on the content and the manner he delivered his nationwide address to mark June 12.
Many Nigerians who reacted to the speech hailed President Tinubu for his reassuring words in the speech. Others prayed for the success of his administration.
For instance, a Twitter user, Ibrahim Kazeem said: “See speech now; flowing without incoherent words. God bless the president, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu.”
Dr. Dipo Awojide prayed for him. He said: “May God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria. May the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu succeed.
“May we enjoy the benefits of a progressive, prosperous and peaceful nation after working for it. All these and many more I ask in the name of God almighty”
Bam Ajulo said: “Very commendable speech by President Tinubu. I must concede that the president was eloquent; he displayed fluidity of thought and had command of the issues. I cannot fault his first two weeks in office.”
David Offor said: “Just a reassuring speech by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu!! I am proud that I supported this man.”
@itsoladeni said: “The June 12th speech by Tinubu is so comprehensive and communicating even to a layman, it was not just a script, it is saying something. Akanbi, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu is renewing my hope indeed.”
Tinubu leads dignitaries to commemorate day at Aso Rock Villa
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu yesterday led other dignitaries to commemorate this year’s Democracy Day celebration at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
It was his first as President, Commander-in-Chief of the Nigerian Armed Forces.
President Tinubu started the day by addressing Nigerians in an early morning broadcast, followed by other activities, including inspecting a guard of honour at the forecourt of the Presidential Villa.
The Guards’ Brigade Cultural Group, made up of wards of the Guards’ Brigade personnel, put up a colourful cultural display, representing the various geopolitical zones of the country as the President and other dignitaries watched with rapt attention.
Vice President Kashim Shettima arrived at the forecourt a few minutes before 10 a.m; former Senate President Ahmad Lawan; former House of Representatives Speaker Femi Gbajabiamila; and the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) Senator George Akume, arrived shortly thereafter.
Others at the forecourt were: Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu; former Zamfara State Governor Bello Matawalle; National Chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Abdullahi Adamu; and the party’s Secretary, Senator Iyiola Omisore.
Also at the event were the Chief of Defence Staff, General Lucky Irabor, who led the other service chiefs; Inspector General of Police (IGP) Usman Alkali Baba; other senior security chiefs and other senior government officials.
Addressing reporters at the forecourt after the ceremonies, Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma admonished politicians to learn from other climes how to imbibe sportsmanship in politicking.
“Democracy itself is a learning process for us in third world countries. So, we’ll continue to learn like in other climes that the spirit of a sportsman must be deployed, that it’s either you win or you lose.”
Sharing his thoughts on the democracy, Akume said June 12 was a deliberate attempt to enthrone the sanctity of democracy and due process in the nation’s electoral processes.
According to him, the day represents “fundamental human rights, the right of people to vote freely and choose their own leaders”.
Senator Godswill Akpabio described June 12 as a milestone for the country, saying the nation was already making progress in the area of liberty. The Akwa Ibom Northwest senator urged Nigerians to see it as a period for sober reflection, especially “when you look at the events that happened 30 years ago”.
He added: “We remember the late M. K. O. Abiola, may his soul rest in peace. Then, we are celebrating this day, you know to commemorate the event. It is very humbling for us to be alive to see this happening and for almost seven times of change of baton in democracy. It shows clearly that Nigeria is moving forward in freedom, and I believe that under President Bola Tinubu, also in prosperity.”
Addressing reporters after the ceremonies, Kingibe affirmed that June 12 would always bring back vivid memories of the process and sadness that ensued at the end of the process with the annulment of the poll.
“I believe in looking forward. The President, in his Democracy Day address, has set out the markers as to where we are coming from. He has set up beacons as to the direction we should take to make our country great, to strengthen democracy and to defend democracy at all times.
“I believe that his speech was really inspiring and I think all right-thinking men and women of this country should very carefully go through and be inspired by it and be guided by it. It is a great thing.”
When asked if he thought the country has done enough to recognise what Abiola truly stood for, the former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) urged Nigerians to be inspired by Abiola’s courage.
Otu pledges to adopt open-door policy
Cross River State Governor Bassey Otu has assured residents of the state that his administration will adopt all-inclusive governance, as well as an open-door policy. He, however, warned them against acts that are capable of truncating democracy.
He said: “Having come a long way as a country, we must do even more to preserve this democracy for the sake of posterity.
“Apart from being the fifth conservative democratic transfer of power from one administration to another since the beginning of the Fourth Republic, it marks the beginning of a new and critical administration in our 24 years of unbroken democratic experience.
“I urge you, my dear people, not only to pray for the success of the new administration but also to work and walk with us to our greatness.”
‘Cooperate with government to build better society’
Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq said the best way to honour the heroes of democracy and sustain the gains of democratic governance is to respect the ideals of democracy.
In a speech to mark the anniversary, Abdulrazaq who is also the chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) urged residents to cooperate with his administration to build a stronger society through patriotism and collective responsibility.
He said: “It is my belief that our country is making appreciably steady progress in our democratic journey and the unending task of nation-building. With all of us playing our complementary roles, I have no doubt that the future holds so many promises for Nigeria as the leader of the black community.”
Nwifuru drums up support for Tinubu
Ebonyi State Governor Francis Nwifuru has called on Nigerians to put aside sentiments and work with the administration of President Ahmed Bola Tinubu to achieve a more prosperous nation.
Speaking in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, during the ceremony yesterday to mark the occasion, Nwifuru said the celebration presents another opportunity for Nigerians to take stock of both progress and challenges as it affects the nation’s democracy.
He said: “Today is a memorable and eventful period in the annals of our nation. 24 years of uninterrupted democratic rule is a clear indication that Nigerians have taken their destiny in their hands.
“Though the democratic trajectory has been characterized by mixed experience, we are confident that the challenges will be surmounted in a matter of time.”
Governor Nwifuru said democracy is the best system where ultimate power rests on the people. He, therefore, urged political actors to learn from the obstacles so as to build a nation that will be anchored on equity, fairness and justice.
Obaseki urges Nigerians to keep faith with democracy
Edo State’s Gov. Godwin Obaseki urged Nigerians to keep faith with democracy in spite of the setbacks being experienced in the country’s democratic sojourn.
In a statement to commemorate the day in Benin City, yesterday, the governor hailed the resolve of Nigerians to work collectively for the advancement of democratic ideals.
He said: “As we mark this year’s Democracy Day, it is imperative to underscore the unwavering resolve of Nigerians to work collectively for the advancement of democratic ideals in our nation.
“Despite the challenges faced, we have held strongly to the vision of our forebears to build a united and strong nation that presents an opportunity for all to aspire, dream and prosper without let in a free society.
“We have shown our preference for democratic rule, time and again and I urge all to continue to play their role in consolidating our democratic journey.
“Though we have experienced setbacks and challenges as a democracy, I applaud the indomitable Nigerian spirit because we have continued to trudge on and demand a more transparent, just and fair system.”
Let’s work towards building better society, says Mutfwang
Governor Caleb Mutfwang has urged residents of Plateau State to embrace democratic values of tolerance, respect for human rights and the rule of law.
The governor, in his goodwill message to mark the day, described democracy as the best form of government that focuses on improving the well-being of citizens and vested in the people the power of recruiting their leaders.
He said: “Fellow citizens of Plateau State, today we celebrate Democracy Day, a day that also marks the annulment of the June 12, 1993 elections, adjudged to be the most credible and freest in the history of elections in our beloved country.”
Mutfwang said the annulment of the June 12, 1993 elections was a dark moment in the history of Nigeria and called for the protection of democratic tenets and respect for the will of the people.
Fubara promises to secure lives, properties
Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara felicitated with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on the day and assured Rivers people of the protection of their lives and property.
Fubara in a statement signed by his Special Assistant, Media, Boniface Onyedi, said the democratic journey had helped to reassure the people of the government’s accountability.
Fubara said: “I join our president and my fellow leaders in expressing my solidarity and hearty good wishes to all Nigerians on this auspicious occasion of celebrating the nation’s democracy day and our progress as a developing nation since the fourth republic.”
He pointed out that the subject of the 2023 Democracy Day Celebration, ” Hope Reassured” was a reassurance of the prospect of a united, secure and prosperous Nigeria.
He urged Nigerians to be vigilant in the defence and protection of “national ideals that constitute the fundamental pillars of nationhood and inspire the basis of our constitutional democracy.”
Adebayo tasks media on citizens’ enlightenment.
The candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in the February 25 presidential election, Prince Adewole Adebayo, has charged the media to educate the public and help them understand what democracy stands for.
The call was contained in his message to Nigerians yesterday on the anniversary. He noted that even though democracy as it is practised in Nigeria today might be imperfect, it still remains the fairest and surest way by which the minority could have their say and the majority, their way.
Adebayo charged public office holders to serve the people with humility, reminding them that government is not a place for revenge, personal reward, egoism and aggrandizement, but rather a place of servant-hood on behalf of the rest of the citizens, who cannot converge at the state house or the National Assembly or judge every case in the judiciary.
Adebayo warned those in public office to be mindful of the fragility of the nation. “Today, on the 30th anniversary of June 12, many heroes have passed away including MKO Abiola, Bashir Tofa of the National Republican Convention (NRC), Solomon Lar and many of the players are still around.
He said: “We have learnt many lessons. There are citizens’ lessons, political parties’ lessons, and civil society lessons. There are institutional lessons for the military as well as lessons for the government of the day.”
He noted that the event was another opportunity to congratulate President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who was a key player as a Senator of the Social Democratic Party in 1993. He added: “So, no one can say that he did not know the travails of the people looking for democracy. No one can say he does not know the fragility of democracy. No one can say that we do not have a documentary in recent history on how a people can come together and canonize democracy and a small group can come together and vandalize democracy.”
My administration not on a witch hunt — Alia
Benue State’s Governor Hyincent Alia has assured stakeholders that his administration is not on a witch hunt, given some of the key decisions he has taken in office so far.
The governor gave the assurance yesterday during a state-wide broadcast to commemorate the anniversary.
He recalled the importance of June 12 and democracy in general, adding that he will utilize the mandate given to him to steer the affairs of the state for the next four years. He asked for the support and the prayers of everyone.
Speaking on some of the key decisions his administration has taken so far, the governor explained that his decision to rescind the recruitment exercise carried out in the Benue State Civil Service by the immediate past administration, for instance, was because due process was not followed and the recruitment was lopsided, favouring a few local government areas.
He explained further that his administration had to take the hard decision because there was also no budgetary provision made in respect of the recruitment, and the Solicitor General of the state was also not carried along during the entire process.
He called on all Benue people not to despair, but to keep hope alive, as according to him, “a new Benue is possible” with everyone’s support.
Mbah vows to strengthen residents’ faith in democracy
Enugu State Governor, Dr. Peter Mbah, has vowed that his administration will strengthen the people’s faith in democracy by rewarding their votes with impactful and life-changing projects as outlined in his manifesto and social contract with them.
The governor in his message to the people said the government would not rest until it achieves the promises of growing the economy exponentially, creating jobs, addressing insecurity as well as infrastructural deficits, and lifting people out of poverty, among others.
In his statement, Mbah said the state has made appreciable progress since the return to civil rule in 1999, adding that his administration would double up efforts to fix the state and attend to the welfare of the people.
He added: “Although the history of our democratic sojourn has been chequered with challenges, the state is moving at an encouraging pace. Let me equally seize this opportunity to salute the people of Enugu State for their heroic feats and for keeping faith with us. It is through your overwhelming support that we are here today as your representatives. We will not let you down in the coming days and years.”
Uzodimma reassures Imo residents
Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma has acknowledged that democracy might not have solved all the challenges facing the country, but that a lot of milestones have been achieved since the return of democratic dispensation in 1999.
In his address to mark the occasion, he expressed satisfaction that in Imo State, for instance, a lot of progress had been recorded under democratic rule, especially since January 2020.
The governor, therefore, called on Imo citizens and residents to rededicate themselves to the efforts to strengthen and sustain democracy irrespective of imperfections inherent in the system.
He assured that the freedom of choice, assembly and association embedded in democracy would always put that system of government above any other.
Embrace lessons of June 12, CAN tells Nigerians
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in its anniversary statement advised Nigerians to embrace the sacrifices made by past heroes who fought for democracy.
CAN said their efforts and contributions to the nation’s freedom should not be forgotten.
A statement issued on Monday by CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh said: “As we mark this year’s Democracy Day on June 12, I want to acknowledge the sacrifices made by our past heroes who fought for democracy in our land. Their struggles and sacrifices have paved the way for the democratic government we enjoy today. We must never forget their efforts and their contributions to our freedom.
“On this day, we also remember the annulment of the free and fair election of Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola as president on June 12, 1993. This event was a watershed in our nation’s history, and it reminds us of the need to uphold the principles of democracy, justice, and fairness at all times as responsible citizens.
“As Nigerians, we must learn from the lessons of June 12 and strive to build a nation where democracy is truly entrenched. We must put aside our religious and cultural differences and work towards the common goal of a better Nigeria. Our leaders must prioritize the needs of the people and ensure that they are accountable to the citizens they serve.
“Furthermore, as we celebrate Democracy Day, we must recognize that there is still much work to be done. We need to address the issues of insecurity, corruption, poverty, and unemployment in our country. These problems affect all Nigerians and must be tackled with urgency and sincerity.”
Bago pays fines for the release of 80 inmates in correctional centres From Justina Asishana, Minna
Niger State Governor Umar Mohammed Bago has facilitated the release of 80 inmates across the various Correctional Centres in the state by paying their fines.
This, according to the governor, was based on the recommendation of the State Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy.
Those to be released would be inmates who are old age, ill health or have been known to be of good behaviour all through their stay in the Correctional Centres.
This was contained in a statement issued by Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Alhaji Abubakar Usman.
The governor also explained that the payment of a fine for the discharge of the inmates by the Governor was in line with the power of Prerogative of Mercy as guaranteed under the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
He appealed to the inmates to make use of their freedom by engaging in useful ventures and shun any act that could lead them back to the correctional facility.
Sani seeks consolidation of lessons to build trust
Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani has said the lessons of the June 12 incident should be used to build and renew people’s trust in government while recounting the late MKO Abiola’s huge sacrifices to ensure that democracy thrives in Nigeria.
The governor said Nigeria has come a long way in its practice of democracy which has been a mixed bag of successes, failures, unmet expectations and rising expectations.
He said: “It is also a story of heroes and villains,” Governor Uba Sani lamented.
He noted that Nigeria’s founding fathers, labour leaders, civil society and pro-democracy activists have made remarkable contributions to the growth and development of democracy and the nation owes them a debt of gratitude for their labours of love.”
Abiola’s legacy lives on, says Gov. Abiodun
Ogun State’s Gov. Dapo Abiodun said 30 years after the June 12 election, it was important to continue to reiterate the role played by the late Abiola in fighting for democracy.
Abiodun, who was represented during the ceremony to mark June 12 by his Deputy, Mrs Noimot Salako-Oyedele, added that Abiola lived a good life worthy of emulation.
“He lived a good life we should learn from. We should learn from his good deeds. He always followed the tenets of God in all his activities.”
The governor also called on Nigerians to continue to pray and support the administration of President Bola Tinubu. He added that petrol subsidy removal was in the best interest of the country.
He said the president was ready to develop the country and provide infrastructure, health care, and education, saying that all these would make Nigeria a better country.
One of Abiola’s sons, Ameen Abiola, expressed gratitude to the state government and the people for still remembering his father even after he had gone.
He noted that his father remained someone to be emulated, saying his legacy must not be allowed to fade away.
Abiola’s son, however, expressed optimism that he believed President Tinubu would bring to reality, the vision of his late father.
Otti hails MKO, other democratic heroes
From Sunny Nwankwo, Umuahia
Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has paid glowing tribute to Moshood Abiola, his wife, Kudirat and other democratic heroes of the country.
The governor admitted that the country has not done enough to justify the commitments and sacrifices made by people they described as unsung heroes to the restoration of democracy in Nigeria.
Otti said democracy remains the best governance and administrative vehicle to drive the nation to the dreamland of abundant prosperity and security for the greater majority.
“While it would not be entirely true to claim that no progress has been made, we must also be honest enough to acknowledge that what we have now in terms of social and economic progress is still a far cry from what the men and women we celebrate today gave their energy, material resources and life for.
“Even then, we must at least be comforted by the consciousness that across Nigeria today, there is an unspoken consensus that democracy remains the best governance and administrative vehicle to drive our nation to the dreamland of abundant prosperity and security for the greater majority.
“Chief M. K. O Abiola and his dear wife Kudirat, and Pa Alfred Rewane paid with their lives that we may enjoy the rights and privileges of living in a free society because they understood that at the very foundation of democracy is freedom.
“They did not dread death for the singular conviction that life itself loses its substance when freedom becomes negotiable.
PDP alleges rape on democracy
From Gbade Ogunwale, Abuja
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has accused the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the All Progressives Congress ( APC) of rape on democracy and dishonouring the memory of Chief Moshood Abiola.
The party in a statement issued on Monday by the PDP National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, said it’s “distasteful, offensive and unacceptable for the nation to observe Democracy Day under a system that violated, desecrated and despoiled all the tenets of democracy as witnessed in the brazen rigging that characterised the 2023 general elections”
The statement said: “The barefaced manipulations of the 2023 general elections by the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), amounts to an unpardonable assault and rape of democracy and disregard for the will of the people; the very ills which Chief MKO Abiola fought and died for.
“June 12 epitomizes the struggle by Nigerians against the corrupt, manipulative and anti-democratic system; against injustice, impunity and electoral fraud which INEC, under Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, now represents.
The party, however, charged leaders at all levels across the country to be guided by the essence of June 12 by always adhering to the principles of democracy in the overall interest of the Nigerian people.
Similarly, the Lagos State Chapter of the party has lauded residents of the state for their tolerance and resilience since the country returned to democracy in 1999.
Akeem Amode, in a message to commemorate Democracy Day, said there was no doubt that the state had yet to enjoy the real dividends of democracy, which Abiola and the June 12, 1993 elections stood for.
Embrace triumphs, trials of democracy, says Saraki
Former Senate President Bukola Saraki has urged Nigerians to embrace the triumphs and trials of the country’s democratic journey.
Senator Saraki in a terse statement added that: “We must uphold our commitment to building a Nigeria where liberty, justice, and the true spirit of democracy will flourish.
“As we celebrate democracy day, let us remember the essence of the system that we have chosen in conducting the governance of our country.
It may not always be perfect, and it may not always go our way — but the beauty of democracy is that every idea and aspiration can live to represent itself another day.
“Let’s continue to embrace not only the triumphs but also the trials of our democratic journey, as they strengthen our resolve and dedication to the development of our dear nation.”
Don’t lose sight of June 12 virtues, says Elumelu
Former Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, Ndudi Elumelu has urged Nigerians not to lose sight of the virtues of June 12.
According to him, the day represents a period of national resistance to injustice, oppression and divisive tendencies, impunity, violation of set rules, and abuse of the rights of citizens among others.
He said “As the nation marks this year’s June 12 Democracy Day, it is imperative that Nigerians, the leaders and the led, to imbibe the culture and democratic tenets of equity, justice, fairness to all, mutual respect, tolerance, adherence to Rule of Law and respect for the Will of the people.
“It is instructive to state that these are the essentials for a united, stable, peaceful, secure, and economically prosperous nation that we all desire.
“June 12 embodies a national resistance to injustice, oppression and divisive tendencies; to impunity, violation of set rules, abuse of the rights of citizens and high-handedness by those in authority, which Chief MKO Abiola fought against and died for.
“It is, therefore, significant that we do not lose sight of the essence of the June 12 Democracy Day, but use the occasion to reawaken a national consciousness towards the entrenchment of true democratic practice that guarantees unity, peace, mutual understanding and harmonious living in our country.
‘Tinubu’s emergence fulfillment of June 12 struggle’
From Frank Ikpefan, Abuja
Some notable Nigerians have said that the emergence of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu fulfils the yearnings of many of the country’s citizens that participated in the June 12 struggle.
Speaking during a world press conference to mark this year’s democracy day, organised by the pro-democracy group, Coalition for a Better Nigeria, former leader of the Niger Delta Peoples Volunteer Force, Asari Dokubo, said he was happy that the struggle for June 12 had been fulfilled with the emergence of Tinubu as president in the February 25, 2023, general election.
Dokubo, along with notable June 12 activists like former Secretary General, National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), Frank Kokori, Convener, pro-democracy group, Awa Bamiji among other activists remembered how Tinubu joined other June 12 activists in the struggle to restore democracy.
He lamented that those who didn’t know how the struggle for the restoration of democracy was fought were busy “claiming their mandates were stolen.”
Kokori said he was hopeful that Tinubu would not fail.
He said the June 12 activists have a belief that the President will turn round the fortunes of the country.
The former labour leader said: “We have so much belief that Asiwaju will turn round this country.
June 12: Set free Leah, other captives, says ECWA
President Ahmed Bola Tinubu has been urged to do all within his power to set free citizens of Nigeria under the captivity of bandits, Boko Haram and ISWAP to give meaning to June 12 celebration.
President of the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) Dr Steven Panya gave the urge in a statement in Jos yesterday to mark June 12 democracy day anniversary.
The statement noted that the remaining 97 Chibok school girls, our beloved Leah Sharibu, Alice Loksha Ngaddah, Grace Lukas, Lilian Daniel Gyang and all others are still in captivity.
Panya said, “Democracy is defined as the government of the people, by the people and for the people, hence anything short of meeting the needs and aspirations of the people who actually installed such democratic leaders would be considered a total failure.
“Having taken over the spaces of governance in Nigeria, this administration must do everything possible to ensure that Nigerians are given nothing less than the best”
The church leader stressed, “The church is praying that this administration will do all within its power to bring back the remaining 97 Chibok school girls, our beloved Leah Sharibu, Alice Loksha Ngaddah, Grace Lukas, Lilian Daniel Gyang and all others still in captivity.
The church also appealed to President Tinubu to be bold and right all the wrongs perpetrated by the immediate past administration in terms of appointments of Ministers, Service Chiefs and other Heads of Parastatals.
ALGON seeks reform of LGAs
The Association of Local Governments of Nigerian (ALGON) has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to declare a state of emergency on the local government area system in Nigeria to protect it.
ALGON said the President could do so by fighting all injustices, constitutional impunity and all manner of executive interference in the affairs of local government areas in Nigeria.
The association stated this in its message to Nigerians on the historic event of June 12, marking the nation’s Democracy Day celebration.
Mr. Kolade Alabi, National President of ALGON urged security agencies and state governors to ensure the safety and security of the lives of vulnerable rural dwellers across the country.
He noted that the significance of June 12 is profound as it represents the weight of Nigeria’s democratic history.
According to him, it is obvious that the political will by Tinubu, if demonstrated, will facilitate the entrenchment of a virile local government system in Nigeria.
Alabi said the development would still go down in history as Tinubu did to the councils in Lagos state as governor.
“It will also be fair and just to appeal for urgent rescuing of the grassroots government in Nigeria as provided by the Constitution to complement efforts to our national rebirth.
NADECO urges Tinubu to return Nigeria to Federal Constitutional Governance
The National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) has urged President Bola Tinubu to return Nigeria to a Federal Constitutional Governance upon which the nation secured her independence.
The Secretary-General of NADECO, Pa Ayo Opadokun said this in a message to commemorate Nigeria’s Democracy Day anniversary on Monday in Lagos.
Opadokun in the message titled: ‘June 12 and the Search for Democracy’ said that Tinubu should implement the report of the Mallam Nasir El Rufai Panel.
He said the panel recommended that APC should fulfil its manifesto promise of returning Nigeria to a Federal Constitutional Governance.
The NADECO leader, therefore, said the path of federal constitutional governance was the most ethnic nationalities leaders, civil society bodies, and opinion leaders, just to mention had vigorously campaigned for in the last 30 years at least.
Unitary system of government not good for us, says don
Dr. Doyin Odebowale has said that a unitary system of government is not good for the country.
Odebowale, a guest lecturer at a public lecture organized by the Ondo State government to mark this year’s June 12 anniversary, said it would be difficult for the country to achieve progress with a unitary system of government in a democracy.
The don, who spoke on the topic, “Democracy, Development and Political Stability in Nigeria”, said, “Real development requires popular ownership and participation. The idea of development must not be reduced to the issue of only brick and mortar.
“It must encapsulate the totality of the aspirations of the people towards advancement. The periodic elections held, successfully, to replace a set of oppressors with yet another cannot be the sole index of progress under this dispensation.
