It has been 26 years since the return of democracy in Nigeria. In those years, the country saw the emergence of five presidents and several elections, which ushered in new sets of leaders both at the national and state levels.
Originally celebrated on May 29, the day Nigeria transitioned to democracy with the swearing-in of former President Olusegun Obasanjo on the same date in 1999, Democracy Day was moved to June 12 – in 2018 – by the government of former President Muhammadu Buhari in honour of the June 12, 1993 election described as the country’s freest polls.
To mark this year’s Democracy Day, President Bola Tinubu is expected to address the nation at a joint session of the National Assembly. Several other activities have been lined up in the nation’s capital and across the country to celebrate the day. Unlike previous years, the ceremonial parade will not be held in the nation’s capital.
Speaking about this year’s celebration, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, said the anniversary was a model for West African democracy.
In a statement by Alkasim Abdulkadir, his special assistant, Tuggar called Nigeria’s democracy a model worthy of emulation as the subcontinent faces growing political uncertainty.
“Democracy is not just an internal affair. It is our strategic contribution to regional peace. Our progress strengthens the African democratic project as a whole,” he added.
Governors have also called on Nigerians to defend the country’s democracy and reflect on the progress made so far.
The Governor of Niger State, Umaru Bago, said this year’s Democracy Day symbolised the victory of the collective will of the people, over dictatorship.
According to him, the day reminds every patriotic Nigerian of the struggles, sacrifices, aspirations, and resilience of our past heroes and heroines.
Bago, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Bologi Ibrahim, said democracy had brought about transparency and accountability in governance, vibrant political competition, expression of diverse viewpoints, and increased civic engagement among others.
His Edo State counterpart, Monday Okpebholo, said Nigerians should reflect on the enduring lessons of June 12 and renew their commitment to the principles of democracy, justice, and unity.
“As we commemorate June 12, our Democracy Day, we are reminded of the strong resolve of Nigerians who, on that fateful day in 1993, spoke with one voice in favour of popular will,” Governor Okpebholo said.
“It is a day to honour the memory of Chief M.K.O. Abiola and all those who played significant roles in the struggle for the democracy we now cherish,” he added.
The Governor of Kaduna State, Uba Sani, shared similar sentiments like his counterparts from Edo and Niger states.
Sani urged leaders and citizens to use the occasion to renew their commitment to upholding democratic values and work together for a brighter, more equitable future for the country.
“June 12 holds a special place in our national history. It marks a defining moment in our collective struggle for democracy and our continued journey toward building a free and just nation,” he said.
On his part, the suspended governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, reaffirmed his commitment to the promotion of inclusive democratic participation for all citizens, regardless of political affiliation.
Fubara said Rivers State’s democratic journey was one shaped by both triumphs and trials, which was a testament to the need to remain steadfast.
Protesters To Storm NASS, Others
However, across states, there are plans for protests as organisers, including the Take It Back Movement, say the country’s democracy is at risk.
While the protests have yet to commence, it is expected to take place at the National Assembly, where Tinubu will address the nation.
According to the movement, the protests will happen in Abuja and 19 other states in the country.
In Lagos, security has been beefed up with the presence of officers from the Lagos State Police Command.
Some youths are also converging in Akure, the Ondo capital, for the protests.
