As Nigeria marks her 23rd Democracy Day, President Muhammadu Buhari says citizens of the country must not forget the sacrifices made by heroes of the country.
He gave the advice in a nationwide broadcast to Nigerians in commemoration of the unique day.
The Nigerian leader paid glowing tribute to the late Moshood Abiola, the acclaimed winner of the 1993 presidential election, adding that Nigeria had to adopt June 12 as its Democracy Day, in honour of the deceased politician.
He said: “Fellow Nigerians, Today, June The 12th, marks another Democracy Day anniversary and an occasion to celebrate freedom and unity of our Nation.
“From 1999, we consistently celebrated Democracy Day to mark the end of military rule and the return of power and control into the hands of those freely elected by the people. On this day, Nigerians recommit themselves to ensuring we protect and preserve the ideals of democracy.
“In 2018, we moved Democracy Day from 29th of May to the 12th of June. This change was to remind all Nigerians of one free election after which the presumed winner along with Nigerians were denied their rights and their choice.
“We must never forget the sacrifices of the heroes of Nigeria’s democracy during 1993. Their patriotism and peaceful struggle should guide our actions especially when it comes to electing our leaders and holding them accountable, now and in future.”
Peaceful Process
Furthermore, President Buhari urged Nigerians to be committed to peaceful election next year, which coincides with the 30th anniversary of the annulled June 12 1993 election.
“This is my last Democracy Day speech as your President. By June 12th, 2023, exactly one year from today, you will already have a new President. I remain committed and determined to ensure that the new President is elected through a peaceful and transparent process.
“It is important for all of us to remember that June 12th, 2023 will be exactly 30 years from the 1993 Presidential elections. In honour and memory of one of our national heroes for democracy, Chief M.K.O Abiola, GCFR, we must all work together to ensure this transition is done in a peaceful manner,” he said.
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