By Peter Adelowo
The presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party, SDP, has called on Nigerians to defend democracy and ensure that the sacrifices made during the June 12 struggle are not wasted.
This is contained in his Democracy Day message, in Abuja marking the 33rd anniversary of the June 12, 1993 presidential election
The statement describes the date as a symbol of the people’s power and the enduring fight for democratic governance.
It recalls that the late Abiola contested the election on the platform of the SDP with the message of “Farewell to Poverty” and won overwhelming support across Nigeria.
According to him, the election offered Nigeria a historic opportunity to demonstrate democratic leadership in Africa at a time when many countries on the continent remained under military rule.
The statement says the annulment of the election by the military government was a betrayal of both the Constitution and the sovereignty of the Nigerian people.
“June 12 reminds us that the people are the true owners of power. What happened in 1993 was not just the annulment of an election; it was a betrayal of the Constitution and the sovereignty of Nigerians,” he states.
According to the statement, the SDP flag bearer pays tribute to Abiola, his wife, , and thousands of Nigerians who suffered persecution while defending democratic rule.
It also acknowledges former President Muhammadu Buhari for officially recognising June 12 as Nigeria’s Democracy Day.
According to statement, Adebayo, however, expresses concern that more than three decades after the historic election, Nigeria continues to face major democratic challenges.
It cites political interference, weak internal party democracy, vote buying, electoral violence, intimidation of civil society groups, and lack of confidence in elections as threats to democratic development.
The statement stresses that Nigeria cannot honour June 12 merely by declaring a public holiday but by building institutions that guarantee credible elections, independent governance, and protection of citizens’ rights.
As preparations for another general election gather momentum, Adebayo urges Nigerians to actively participate in strengthening democracy and safeguarding the sanctity of the ballot.
He further calls for a government committed to implementing the fundamental objectives and directive principles contained in Chapter Two of the Constitution, with citizens’ welfare, security, and wellbeing as top priorities.
While acknowledging widespread poverty and insecurity, he maintains that democracy remains the best system of government and urged Nigerians to remain committed to the democratic ideals for which June 12 heroes sacrificed.
