Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has emphasised the need to consolidate Nigeria’s democratic gains to build a more inclusive and accountable society.
He described the country’s democratic journey as one marked by resilience, despite past setbacks, including the annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election.
Speaking at the commemoration of the 32nd anniversary of the annulled election, held at the International Centre for Culture and Events (The Dome), Akure, Aiyedatiwa said the election, widely considered Nigeria’s freest and fairest, represented a watershed moment in the nation’s political history.
He lamented that its annulment robbed the country of an opportunity for accelerated democratic and socio-economic development.
“Today, we commemorate a pivotal moment in our democratic journey as a country. The June 12 election was not only a defining milestone, it also strengthened our collective struggle for freedom, justice, and the rule of law,” the governor stated.
Aiyedatiwa noted that past disruptions to democratic governance resulted in significant setbacks, including economic stagnation, poor access to social services, reduced civic engagement, and human rights violations. Nevertheless, he acknowledged that since Nigeria’s return to civilian rule in 1999, the country has made notable progress in strengthening democratic institutions.
The governor paid tribute to Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola for his ultimate sacrifice in the struggle for democracy.
He also honoured the memory and contributions of other pro-democracy figures such as Pa Reuben Fasoranti, Oba Olu Falae, Balarabe Musa, Chief Gani Fawehinmi, Madam Kudirat Abiola, and Chief Abraham Adesanya, as well as numerous human rights groups and student activists.
“Since the commencement of our administration, we have prioritized a people-centered approach. We are committed to ensuring peace and security across the state, creating a safe environment for all residents,” Aiyedatiwa affirmed.
In a keynote lecture titled “Losses and Gains in Relation to Today’s Democratic Realities in Nigeria,” Senate Leader, Senator Michael Opeyemi Bamidele, represented by Ondo State Attorney General, Dr. Kayode Ajulo, described June 12 as a symbol of sacrifice, resilience, and the enduring hope for a better Nigeria.
Bamidele outlined the losses incurred as a result of the annulment, including democratic betrayal, silencing of dissent, and delayed political development.
However, he noted that the nation has also recorded significant gains, such as 25 years of uninterrupted democracy, increased civic awareness, and the institutional recognition of MKO Abiola’s legacy.
He added that President Bola Tinubu, a frontline figure in the June 12 struggle, is continuing the legacy through his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which focuses on economic reform, national security, and improved governance.
Chairman of the event, Dr. Tunji Abayomi, called on Aiyedatiwa to sustain the spirit of democracy, noting Ondo State’s historic role in Nigeria’s pro-democracy movement.
