Governorship candidate of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) in Ogun State, Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, has enjoined Nigerians to continue to unite for the purpose of a “new and better Nigeria.”
Ajadi wished the people of Ogun and Nigeria happy Democracy Day, noting that citizens must not forget the lessons of June 12.
The young politician also implored Nigerians not to give up, saying Nigerians can achieve all in unity.
Ajadi said the event of June 12, 1993 in the country will forever be remembered.
“Nigerians in one voice, despite differences in faith, ethnicity and class came out in one voice and unanimity of their political decisions, showed that the peace and progress of out great country towers above everything else.
“This they did by their votes; they chose a pair they felt could steer their affairs aright.
“It was a Muslim-Muslim ticket, but Nigerians voted them. By this, I refer to the Social Democratic Party (SDP) pair of Alhaji Moshood Abiola and Ambassador Babagana Kingibe, presidential and vice presidential candidates respectfully.
“Though that election was eventually nullified by those opposed to genuine democracy in the country, because of their selfish motives, the lessons can never be erased by any military action.
“What do we learn from June 12? One of its many lessons is that free and fair election is possible in this country. Second is that Nigerians know and will identify with quality leadership when they see one,” he stated.
Ajadi further identified the third June 12 lesson as the courage not to allow selfish politicians to use the card of ethnicity to deny us of quality leaders whenever they show up. if we do, we will stand to suffer the consequences.
“These are why the charade and inadequacies that characterized the last elections should never be supported by real Nigerian patriots,” he added.
He however called on Nigerians to continue to work for the betterment of country despite the differences.
Ajadi said, “Yes, different ethnic groups may have been foisted together as one country by British colonialists, but we can not continue to use that as excuse not to unite and move forward.
“As a matter of fact, there is no one country in the world where there are no ethnic or class divides, but these countries have continued to forge ahead with good leadership.
“Nigeria could do the same. Let’s all make it possible. So, let today’s celebration make us resolve more than ever before to work towards a more united, more progressive Nigeria. It is possible, it is doable. This is my message to you Nigerians.”
