June 12: Group calls for elections that reflect will of Nigerians

By Deborah Oladejo, Osogbo –

As Nigeria marks the 33rd anniversary of the June 12, 1993 presidential election, the AMBO Campaign Civil Society Committee has called on political actors, government institutions, electoral bodies and citizens to work towards building a Nigeria where elections genuinely reflect the will of the people.

Addressing journalists at the Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in Osogbo on Wednesday, the committee’s Secretary, Comrade Adeola Olayiwola, said Nigerians must strive for a democracy where public trust in electoral processes continues to grow and where leadership is driven by service, integrity and national interest.

According to him, the June 12 anniversary serves as a reminder that democracy goes beyond periodic elections and must be rooted in accountability, justice, transparency, respect for the rule of law and the protection of citizens’ rights.

“As we mark this anniversary, we are reminded that democracy is not merely about elections. It is about accountability, justice, transparency, respect for the rule of law and the protection of citizens’ rights. The lessons of June 12 challenge us to continue strengthening our democratic institutions and ensuring that every vote counts,” he said.

Olayiwola noted that the anniversary remains a reminder of the sacrifices made by patriots who fought for democratic governance, justice and national unity in Nigeria, stressing that citizens and institutions must uphold the principles that made the June 12 election a landmark event in the country’s history.

He described the June 12, 1993 presidential election as a defining moment in Nigeria’s democratic journey, noting that it remains widely regarded as the freest, fairest and most credible election ever conducted in the country.

Olayiwola further disclosed that the committee is organising a commemorative programme themed, “Democracy and the Ideals of Progressive Governance.” He said the programme will commence with a Democracy Day Walk from Nelson Mandela Freedom Park through MDS, Orita Olaiya, Oke-Fia and Lameco, before culminating in an anniversary lecture at the Aurora Conference Centre.

Also speaking, APC chieftain Kehinde Ayantunji urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, the military and other stakeholders to ensure free, fair and credible elections, saying democracy can only thrive when disputes are resolved through lawful and constitutional means.