Tinubu pays tribute to Abiola, Kudirat, others as Nigeria marks Democracy Day

President Bola Tinubu has paid tribute to the heroes of the June 12 struggle, describing the annulled 1993 presidential election as a defining moment in Nigeria’s democratic journey and urging citizens to uphold the ideals for which democracy activists fought.

In his Democracy Day address on Friday, Tinubu said June 12 occupies a sacred place in the nation’s history, representing far more than an election.

“June 12 occupies a sacred place in our national memory. It represents more than an election; it is a defining chapter in our story,” the President said.

He paid tribute to the presumed winner of the June 12, 1993 presidential election, Chief M.K.O. Abiola, whom he described as a leader who secured a pan-Nigerian mandate that transcended ethnic and religious divisions. He also honoured the memory of Alhaja Kudirat Abiola and other pro-democracy figures who played key roles in the struggle for democratic governance.

Among those recognised were Chief Gani Fawehinmi, Chief Bola Ige, Chief Alfred Rewane, Pa Abraham Adesanya, Chief Anthony Enahoro, Alhaji Balarabe Musa, Commodore Dan Suleiman, Dr Beko Ransome-Kuti, Frank Kokori, Arthur Nwankwo, Chima Ubani and Shehu Musa Yar’Adua.

According to the President, the sacrifices of the June 12 heroes helped secure the freedoms Nigerians enjoy today and placed an obligation on current leaders and citizens to strengthen democratic institutions.

“As beneficiaries of their struggle, we have a duty to strengthen and deepen the democratic institutions for which they fought. The greatest tribute we can pay is to build a Nigeria where freedom is protected, justice is upheld, opportunity is expanded and government is accountable,” he said.

Tinubu noted that while the June 12 struggle secured political freedom, the current generation must focus on achieving economic freedom and ensuring that democracy translates into improved living conditions for citizens.

“June 12, 1993, revealed the possibility of a true Nigerian nation. The heroes of June 12 secured political freedom. Our challenge is to secure economic freedom,” he said.