June 12: Keep faith in democracy, Oyebanji urges Nigerians
By Rotimi Ojomoyela
Ado-Ekiti — Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has called on residents of the state and Nigerians at large to remain committed to democracy, describing it as a vital system that encourages citizens’ participation in governance and national development.
The governor made the appeal in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode, to commemorate this year’s Democracy Day celebration.
According to Oyebanji, June 12 serves as a significant occasion for Nigerians to reflect on the nation’s democratic journey and renew their dedication to upholding democratic values while working towards a stronger state and a more prosperous country.
He noted that June 12 occupies a special place in Nigeria’s political history and democratic evolution, symbolizing the resilience of the people in their quest for democratic governance.
The statement further explained that the day marks the 33rd anniversary of the June 12, 1993 presidential election, widely recognized as the freest, fairest, and most peaceful election ever conducted in Nigeria. The election was won by the late business magnate, Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola.
Governor Oyebanji paid tribute to Chief Abiola, his late wife, Alhaja Kudirat Abiola, and numerous democracy advocates who sacrificed greatly, including their lives, in the struggle against military rule and for the restoration of democratic governance.
He also acknowledged the contributions of pro-democracy activists who championed the validation of the June 12 mandate and played key roles in Nigeria’s return to civilian rule in 1999. Among them, he singled out President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, describing him as one of the prominent figures who sustained the democratic movement during difficult times.
The governor equally commended former President Muhammadu Buhari for officially recognizing June 12 as Nigeria’s Democracy Day.
Reflecting on the significance of the historic election, Oyebanji stated that June 12 demonstrated Nigerians’ willingness to rise above ethnic, religious, cultural, and linguistic differences in pursuit of a democratic system where the people’s votes and choices are respected.
While admitting that democracy is not without its shortcomings, the governor maintained that it remains the most effective form of government, offering citizens the opportunity to participate in decision-making processes and choose their leaders through the ballot.
He stressed that all Nigerians have a responsibility to strengthen democratic institutions by upholding constitutional principles, respecting the rule of law, and supporting initiatives that promote good governance and national progress.
Governor Oyebanji congratulated Nigerians and the people of Ekiti State on the occasion of Democracy Day and the nation’s 27 years of uninterrupted democratic governance, the longest democratic period in Nigeria’s political history.