Former member, National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), Femi Sanni (Araba), has honoured Nigeria’s democracy heroes, including the late Chief MKO Abiola, Pa Abraham Adesanya, Chief Bola Ige, Pa Alfred Rewane, Ndubuisi Kanu, Senator Shehu Sani, Air Commodore Dan Suleiman, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and other pro-democracy advocates whose sacrifices helped restore democratic rule in Nigeria.

In a Democracy Day message, Sanni, an All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship aspirant in Kwara State, described June 12 as a moment to remember the courage and sacrifices of Nigerians who resisted military dictatorship and fought for the return of democratic governance.

He commended the role of NADECO, civil society groups, journalists and citizens who stood against authoritarian rule, saying their struggles laid the foundation for the democracy Nigerians enjoy today.

Sanni, who participated in the NADECO movement in Canada during the pro-democracy struggle, said the sacrifices of those involved remain a source of inspiration for present and future generations.

His contributions to the democratic movement were acknowledged by key APC stakeholders during the party’s governorship primary.

He particularly recognised the role of Tinubu and other activists in the struggle against military rule, describing Nigeria’s democracy as a product of collective efforts by many patriots.

According to him, sustaining democracy requires stronger institutions, accountability and governance that respond to the needs and aspirations of citizens.

The APC aspirant also praised recent democratic reforms under the Tinubu administration including the Supreme Court judgment affirming local government financial autonomy, describing it as a major step towards strengthening grassroots democracy.

He further welcomed moves towards establishing state police, noting that decentralising security architecture would enhance effective policing and improve citizens’ safety.

Sanni urged Nigerians to remain committed to democratic values, stressing that the sacrifices of heroes such as the late Chief MKO Abiola, Pa Rewane, and other pro-democracy figures must continue to inspire the pursuit of a stronger, safer and more prosperous nation.