In a national broadcast on June 12, 2023, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu marked the thirtieth anniversary of the historic June 12, 1993, presidential election in Nigeria. The speech highlighted the significance of this date in the country’s transition from military rule to democracy. President Tinubu emphasized the struggles faced by Nigerians in their quest for democratic governance and paid tribute to the heroes who fought for the realization of this fundamental right.
The President began by acknowledging that it had been exactly three decades since Nigerians exercised their right to elect their President, signaling the end of military dictatorship. He described the annulment of the June 12, 1993, election, which was won by Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), as a pivotal moment that led to the prolonged struggle for democracy in Nigeria.
President Tinubu drew parallels between the pro-democracy movement and the anti-colonial struggle, highlighting the resilience and commitment of the Nigerian people to the ideals of democracy. He expressed gratitude for the sacrifices made by Chief MKO Abiola, Kudirat Abiola, Pa Alfred Rewane, and Major General Shehu Musa Yar’Adua (rtd), among others, who fought for democracy and paid the ultimate price.
The President stressed the importance of cherishing and protecting democracy, reminding Nigerians that the freedoms and rights it offers should never be taken for granted. Drawing from the country’s history of dictatorship, President Tinubu asserted that the challenges faced in a democratic system, such as electoral disputes and disagreements, ultimately strengthen the value and worth of democracy itself.
Reflecting on the recent elections held in Nigeria, the President noted that the intense competition was evidence of a thriving democracy. He emphasized that winners today might become losers tomorrow, and losers would have the opportunity to compete and win in the future. President Tinubu highlighted the importance of accepting election outcomes and utilizing the constitutional provisions to seek legal redress, emphasizing that democracy remains the best form of government.
President Tinubu underscored the significance of democracy as a pillar of the rule of law and the importance of a vibrant judiciary in delivering justice and strengthening institutions. He mentioned the recent harmonization of retirement age for judicial officers as a step toward strengthening the rule of law, signaling further reforms in progress.
The President emphasized that democracy should bring social and economic justice to the Nigerian people. He acknowledged the decision to remove the fuel subsidy, acknowledging the burden it places on the masses but assuring them that the government would repay their sacrifice through investments in transportation infrastructure, education, power supply, healthcare, and public utilities to improve their quality of life.
President Tinubu called on all Nigerians to recommit themselves to the principles of democracy and urged elected officials to deliver on their electoral promises, offering selfless service to the people and tangible democracy dividends. He reiterated his administration’s commitment to the “Renewed Hope” agenda and pledged to govern with fairness, respect for the rule of law, and the dignity of all citizens.
In conclusion, President Tinubu wished Nigerians a happy Democracy Day celebration and prayed for the continuous preservation of liberty in the Federal Republic of Nigeria.