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Afenifere has said this year’s Democracy Day celebration is significant because President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, one of the leading lights of the June 12 struggle is in the saddle.
The pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation in a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Jare Ajayi noted that Tinubu played a prominent role in the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), the coalition of pro-democracy groups that fought the military with the aim to actualise the late MKO Abiola’s mandate.
Afenifere said the celebration of the 30th anniversary of June 12, 2023, is a landmark victory for democracy as it offers Tinubu the opportunity to actualise the vision both lath Chief Obafemi Awolowo and MKO Abiola nursed for Nigeria.
“Tinubu incidentally was part of Hope 93, the trajectory mounted by Abiola who contested the 1993 presidential election on the platform of the Social Democratic Party (SDP). Thus, Tinubu was very much aware of the plans Abiola had for transforming Nigeria had he become the president of the country. Herein, among other areas, lies the significance of Tinubu mounting the saddle exactly 30 years after the historic election that would have seen Abiola in Aso Rock. Tinubu now has the onerous responsibility of actualising the noble dreams of Abiola for Nigeria and the Africa continent.
“Just as he is familiar with the life-transforming programmes of his older political icon, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, now, he has the responsibility to harmonise the big projects of these two men and integrate them with his own plans with a view to making Nigeria fulfil its destiny. The destiny of being the leading light for the Black Race all over the world. A destiny the country was on the path to fulfil but for the unfortunate military incursion of 1966.”
Submitting that the theme for this year’s Democracy Day celebration which is ‘Hope Reassured’ is apt, Afenifere spokesman urged President Tinubu to ensure that his government does not dash the hopes of Nigerians as many previous administrations did.
“From the actions he has taken so far, we are confident that this administration will reset Nigeria back on the path of glory in which the people will truly be happy under an atmosphere of good governance.”
AANI calls for constructive dialogue
The Alumni Association of the National Institute (AANI) has described June 12 as significant in the nation’s political history as it marks the resilience and determination of the Nigerian people in their pursuit of democratic governance.
President of the association and former Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mohammed Abubakar, who made this known, called on Nigerians to embrace the new government by engaging in constructive dialogue and working together to address our challenges.
Abubakar, in a statement by the association’s national publicity secretary Brigadier General Sani Kukasheka Usman (retd), said “as policy and strategic leaders, it is our responsibility to lead by example and promote the values of democracy. We must support initiatives that promote inclusivity, transparency, and accountability. By doing so, we can foster an environment conducive to national development and create a better society for all.
“Embracing love for one another and fostering national unity is essential for the progress and well-being of our great nation, Nigeria. On this Democracy Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to these ideals and work towards a more harmonious and inclusive society.
“We extend our heartfelt appreciation to the security forces and all those who diligently strive to maintain sustainable peace, uphold democracy, and promote national reconciliation and stability. Their unwavering dedication and sacrifice contribute to the safeguarding of our nation’s progress and prosperity.
“By valuing and respecting one another, irrespective of our differences, we can build bridges of understanding and create an atmosphere of unity. Together, let us celebrate our diversity and leverage it as a strength that unites us in our pursuit of a brighter future for our country.
“On this Democracy Day, let us also cherish the principles upon which our forefathers founded our nation and strive to uphold them. May this day serve as a reminder of the power of democracy and our collective responsibility to safeguard it.
“May love, unity and peace guide us as we forge ahead on the path of progress. Let us stand united for the betterment of Nigeria. Together, we can build a brighter future for Nigeria. May this Democracy Day bring renewed hope, unity, and prosperity to our great nation.
