Exponent News Akure
JUNE 12: NIGERIA HAS MADE DEMOCRATIC GAINS WORTH PROTECTING — GOV AIYEDATIWA
Ondo Governor pledges continued delivery of democracy dividends to citizens
Ondo State Governor, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has stated that Nigeria’s democratic journey, while marked by painful setbacks such as the annulment of the June 12, 1993, election, has also brought about notable progress that must be protected and expanded upon.
The Governor made this declaration on Thursday at the 32nd anniversary of the annulled June 12 presidential election, now commemorated as Democracy Day. The event, themed “June 12: Losses and Gains in Relationship to Today’s Democratic Realities in Nigeria,” was held at the International Centre for Culture and Events (The Dome), Akure.
Describing the historic election won by the late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola as a defining moment in Nigeria’s democratic evolution, the Governor remarked that the election, adjudged as the freest and fairest in the nation’s history, was a missed opportunity to hasten the country’s democratic development.
“Today, we commemorate a pivotal moment in our democratic journey as a country. The June 12 election was not only a watershed that has had lasting impacts on our country’s democratic journey, it has strengthened our collective struggle for freedom, justice and the Rule of Law,” Aiyedatiwa said.
He emphasised that Democracy Day serves both as a remembrance of sacrifices made and a point of reflection on the journey so far. According to him, previous disruptions in Nigeria’s democratic trajectory brought about dire consequences—economic stagnation, weakened institutions, human rights violations, and poor access to essential services.
However, he noted that since the return to civilian rule in 1999, the country has made strides toward consolidating democratic institutions, with citizens now enjoying greater freedom of expression and political participation.
“In spite of the challenges we faced, we have made notable progress in the consolidation of our democratic institutions. Citizens now enjoy greater freedom to express their opinions, assemble, and constructively criticise the government without fear of arrest or harassment,” he stated.
Paying glowing tributes to Chief MKO Abiola and other heroes of the democratic struggle—including Pa Reuben Fasoranti, HRH Oba Olu Falae, Chief Gani Fawehinmi, Madam Kudirat Abiola, Chief Abraham Adesanya, Balarabe Musa, student unions, and human rights organisations—the Governor commended their enduring legacy.
He used the platform to highlight the achievements of his administration, stressing its people-centred approach. He listed improvements in education, civil service welfare, student support, security, health infrastructure, and road construction as key milestones.
Governor Aiyedatiwa also noted progress in agricultural productivity, rural electrification, and economic empowerment through support for small businesses.
“Since the commencement of our administration, we have worked tirelessly to ensure that it is people-driven. We are putting adequate security measures in place to ensure peace and safety of lives and property throughout the state,” he said.
The Governor called on citizens to remain committed to democratic principles and to support leadership that upholds transparency, accountability, and prioritises public welfare.
Delivering the 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—reiterated that June 12 symbolises resilience and sacrifice.
Bamidele reflected on the annulment of the 1993 election and its aftermath, which included democratic repression and slow political development. Nonetheless, he acknowledged the positive outcomes: a quarter-century of uninterrupted democracy, national recognition of MKO Abiola, greater civic participation, and ongoing reforms.
He added that President Bola Tinubu, who was part of the June 12 struggle, is honouring its legacy through his Renewed Hope Agenda, focused on economic reform, national security, and better governance.
Chairman of the event, Dr. Tunji Abayomi, called on Governor Aiyedatiwa to keep the democratic spirit alive, stressing Ondo State’s historical role in the democratic movement. He said democracy must result in visible improvements in citizens’ lives.
In his closing remarks, Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti, described the occasion as a landmark in Nigeria’s democratic history and praised Governor Aiyedatiwa’s commitment to deepening democratic values.
The event was attended by top government officials, including Deputy Governor Dr. Olayide Adelami; Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Olamide Oladiji; Chief Judge Justice Olusegun Ayedun; Chief of Staff Prince Segun Omojuwa; Head of Service Mr. Bayo Philips; members of the House of Assembly; traditional rulers; religious leaders; civil servants; political appointees; and civil society representatives.
