Secretary to the government of the federation, Senator George Akume, and the running mate of late Chief MKO Abiola in the annulled June 12, 1993 presidential election, Ambassador Babagana Kingibe, yesterday gave more insight into how the election redefined democracy in Nigeria.
Akume said June 12 represents the sanctity of democracy and due process in elections in Nigeria, noting that “the day represents fundamental human rights, the right of people to vote freely and choose their own leaders.”
He praised President Muhammadu Buhari for declaring June 12 as a work-free day in 2019 and affirmed President Tinubu’s critical role in the struggle for democratic ideals.
They spoke as President Bola Tinubu inspected the Guards of Honour to commemorate this year’s Democracy Day at the forecourt of his office at the presidential villa, Abuja.
Kingibe emphasised the importance of MKO Abiola’s role in strengthening democracy in Nigeria.
Speaking to journalists, Kingibe encouraged Nigerians to draw inspiration from Abiola’s courage and unwavering commitment.
He said, “Abiola is no more. We can’t bring him back. But we should never forget.
He said, We should be inspired by his courage, his steadfast commitment, and his willingness to sacrifice his life, for which I think the country will forever be grateful.”
“I believe in looking forward and 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.
“And 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.
On his thoughts about whether the country has done enough to recognise what MkO Abiola truly stands for, the former secretary to government of the federation urged Nigerians to be inspired by his courage.
“Abiola is no more. We can’t bring him back. And whatever we do, will never bring him back to life. But we should never forget. We should be inspired by his courage. We should be inspired by his steadfast commitment, and we should be inspired by his willingness to sacrifice his life, which he has, and for which I think the country will forever be grateful,” he added.
Vice President Kashim Shettima arrived a few minutes earlier, joined by other dignitaries, including Senate President Ahmed Lawan, chief of staff to the president, Femi Gbajabiamila, and the SGF, Akume.
Notable attendees at the event were Lagos State Governor Jide 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, among others.
The Chief of Defence Staff, General Lucky Irabor, led the service chiefs, Inspector-General of Police, and senior security chiefs, as well as government officials, in witnessing the significant ceremonies held at the State House to commemorate the June 12, 1993 presidential election.
Senator Godswill Akpabio referred to June 12 as a milestone for Nigeria, underscoring the progress the nation has made in terms of freedom.
He called for reflection on the events of 30 years ago and the late MKO Abiola, saying, “It is very humbling for us to be alive to see this happening and witness the change of leadership in democracy.”
Akpabio expressed optimism for a prosperous future under President Tinubu, emphasizing the importance of peace, security, and economic development.
He also urged Nigerians to see it as a period for sober reflection, especially “when you look at the events that happened 30 years ago, the late MKO Abiola—may his soul rest in peace.
“And then we are celebrating this day, you know to commemorate that event, it is very humbling. And 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 under President Bola Tinubu also in prosperity”, he added.
On whether Nigerians can cash in on the gains of the day, Akpabio said, “definitely, because, of course, you have seen the last election. That was the first cashless election in Nigeria and in spite of that, Nigerians still trooped out to bring out leaders of their choices. So, we are very excited and we know that there is hope for the future.
“We will cash in by ensuring that there is peace and then ensuring that we work towards a secured nation where everybody can sleep with their eyes closed and, of course, bring back prosperity. We will produce what we consume and consume what we produce.
“We are already certain and we believe that the internal refineries are now going to kick in with the abrogation of subsidy which was a terrible cankerworm.
“I don’t know the statistics, but someone is telling me that over 69 million barrels (probably litres) a day were being consumed before the subsidy was removed, but now it has reduced to 15. Then the neighbouring countries are rioting because we were subsidising for almost all our neighbours in West Africa.
“We were depleting our resources and we were getting poorer while they were enjoying their lives. So, today, Nigerians have hope—a renewed hope—that yes, indeed, that the resources we are going to save from the policies being taken already by this administration would be used by humanity and used to enhance the living standard of Nigerians. So, we are cashing in on this day of democracy.”
Also, Imo State governor, Hope Uzodinma, recognised that democracy in Nigeria is still a learning process.
He urged politicians to embrace the spirit of sportsmanship and eschew violence, stating, “When you win, you’ll celebrate, when you lose, you’ll wait for another time.”
Uzodimma emphasised the need for honorable political practices and peaceful transitions of power.
We’ve got the edge. Get real-time reports, breaking scoops, and exclusive angles delivered straight to your phone. Don’t settle for stale news. Join LEADERSHIP NEWS on WhatsApp for 24/7 updates →
Join Our WhatsApp Channel
