June 12: Aiyedatiwa Hails Heroes Of Democracy, Says Nigeria On Right Path

The Ondo State governor, Hon.  Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has said that Nigeria’s democratic journey, despite the losses suffered in the past, continues to yield gains that must be consolidated to build a more inclusive and accountable society.

He made this assertion on Thursday, during the commemoration of the 32nd anniversary of the annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election, an event now recognised as Democracy Day, held at the International Centre for Culture and Events (The Dome), Akure.

The governor described the June 12, 1993, presidential election, won by the late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola, as a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s political history. He recalled that the election, widely regarded as the freest and fairest in the nation’s history, was annulled, thus denying the country an opportunity for a more accelerated democratic evolution.

“Today, we commemorate a pivotal moment in our democratic journey as a country. The June 12 election was not only a watershed that has had lasting impacts on our country’s democratic journey but has strengthened our collective struggle for freedom, justice and the Rule of Law,” he said.

Reflecting on the theme of this year’s commemoration, June 12: Losses and Gains in Relationship to Today’s Democratic Realities in Nigeria, the Governor noted that the occasion was not only for remembrance but also a moment for reflection on how far the country has come.

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He said the past interruptions to democratic rule had led to negative consequences such as economic stagnation, limited access to social services, weakened civic engagement, and widespread human rights abuses. However, he acknowledged that since the return to civilian rule in 1999, Nigeria has recorded considerable democratic progress.

“Despite our challenges, we have made notable progress in consolidating our democratic institutions. Citizens now enjoy greater freedom to express their opinions, assemble, and constructively criticise the government without fear of arrest or harassment,” he said.

Aiyedatiwa paid tributes to the late Chief MKO Abiola for his supreme sacrifice in the quest for democracy and to other pro-democracy activists who played critical roles during the struggle, including Pa Reuben Fasoranti, HRH Oba Olu Falae, Balarabe Musa, Chief Gani Fawehinmi, Madam Kudirat Abiola, Chief Abraham Adesanya, and various human rights organisations and student bodies.

He also used the occasion to highlight his administration’s achievements since assuming office, noting that his government has remained people-driven and committed to promoting good governance, security, workers’ welfare, education, infrastructure, healthcare, and economic empowerment.

Governor Aiyedatiwa highlighted a wide range of achievements under his administration aimed at improving governance and service delivery across Ondo State.

In his lecture titled “Losses and Gains about Today’s Democratic Realities in Nigeria,” Senate Leader, Senator Michael Opeyemi Bamidele, represented by Ondo State Attorney General, Dr. Kayode Ajulo, described June 12 as a symbol of sacrifice, resilience, and hope for a better Nigeria.

He said the day invites reflection on the historic 1993 presidential election, widely regarded as Nigeria’s freest and fairest, which was annulled by the military regime of General Ibrahim Babangida.

Bamidele outlined the losses of June 12, including democratic betrayal, suppression of voices, and delayed political development. However, he said the gains include 25 years of uninterrupted democracy, national recognition of Abiola, increased civic awareness, and ongoing institutional reforms.