Democracy Day: MKO Abiola’s Advocacy and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Speech -By Caleb Onah

In modern-day Nigeria, democracy plays a crucial role in shaping the country’s governance and providing a platform for the people to participate in decision-making processes. Since the transition from military rule to democracy in 1999, As a Nation, we have made significant strides in consolidating democratic institutions and practices. Democracy in Nigeria is characterised by regular elections at various levels of government, including the presidential, legislative, and local levels.

These elections provide an opportunity for us as Nigerians to choose our leaders and express our political preferences. While there have been challenges, such as an allegation of electoral malpractices and violence, the country has made efforts to improve the electoral process through reforms and the use of technology.

However, President Bola Tinubu, on Monday 12^th June addressed Nigerians in commemoration of 2023 Democracy Day with promises to respect rule of law and reward we Nigerians for our sacrifices on subsidy removal. In summary, he stated that, thirty years ago, we exercised our right to elect a President in a historic transition from military dictatorship to representative government.

The annulment of Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola’s victory in the June 12, 1993, presidential election sparked a struggle that ultimately led to the democracy enjoyed since 1999. The opposition to the annulment represented a fierce commitment to democracy, paralleling the battle against colonial rule. This struggle demonstrated the enduring validity of the notion that societies progress as they respond to challenges.

The democracy we have today was not easily obtained. It required sacrifice and martyrdom, notably by Chief MKO Abiola, who gave his life defending democratic ideals. Other heroes of democracy, such as Kudirat Abiola, Pa Alfred Rewane, and Major General Shehu Musa Yar’Adua, also played pivotal roles. It is essential to never take democracy for granted, as its value is truly appreciated when lost.

While democracy may have its challenges, such as rancorous debates and electoral contestations, these aspects testify to its merit. In 2023, Nigeria held its seventh cycle of elections since 1999, demonstrating that democracy remains alive. The beauty of democracy lies in its ability to provide opportunities for both winners and losers, ensuring that power can be alternated through regular elections. Disagreements with election outcomes can be addressed through legal means, further highlighting the strength of democracy.

June 12 has become a watershed moment in Nigeria’s history, symbolizing the eternal nature of democracy. It encompasses the rule of law, a vibrant judiciary, and a rejection of illegal orders that undermine democracy. The recent harmonisation of retirement age for judicial officers aims to strengthen the rule of law, a critical pillar of democracy.

Democracy should bring social and economic justice to the people. It offers the best chance to fight and eliminate poverty through thoughtful policies. Though the removal of fuel subsidies may burden the masses, it is a necessary sacrifice to save the country and redirect resources from the few to benefit the many. The government pledges to repay this sacrifice through investments in transportation infrastructure, education, power supply, healthcare, and other public utilities that enhance quality of life.

The democracy MKO Abiola died for prioritises the welfare of the people over personal interests. It seeks to provide personal fulfilment and happiness to the governed. On Democracy Day, we are urged to rededicate ourselves to strengthening this form of government, particularly elected officials who must deliver on electoral promises. The commitment to truth, equity, justice, and respect for the rule of law will guide the government in governing with fairness and upholding the dignity of all citizens.

Personally, the president only emphasised the importance of democracy and the sacrifices made to obtain and maintain it. Democracy should be cherished and protected, as its benefits are truly valued when lost.

We as Nigerians are called upon to uphold democratic principles and work together towards social and economic justice. The government pledges to repay the sacrifices made by investing in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and other essential services. Ultimately, the hope ignited by MKO Abiola in 1993 remains alive, and the light of liberty shall continue to shine in Nigeria.

But the big questions remains did the annulment of Chief MKO Abiola’s victory in the 1993 presidential election really and still contributing to the struggle for democracy of current Nigeria? Are there still the key similarities between the opposition to the annulment of the election and the battle against colonial rule in current Nigeria? With greed and corruption of politicians are various levels, hasn’t Nigeria democracy been taken for granted, yet as Chinua Achebe stated, indeed there was a Country.