Human rights groups, Defend Nigeria Movement (DNM) and Nigeria Unite for Democracy (NUD), have called on the Federal Government to recognise the coalition of June 12 activists and martyrs.
The demand comes as the nation marks the 32nd anniversary of the annulled June 12, 1993 presidential election.
Addressing the media at the Lagos Airport Hotel, Ikeja yesterday, Convener of the groups, Razaq Olokoba, said they “recollect with nostalgia how Nigerians all over the country on the historic day of June 12 1993, went to the polls in a peaceful and cordial atmosphere, jettisoning ethnic, religious and other primordial sentiments which have always divided us, to speak with one voice as a people with a common destiny for the peace, progress and prosperity of fatherland.”
The groups, while commending President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms, emphasised the need to acknowledge the sacrifices of ordinary people who fought for democracy.
They also urged the government to address security challenges through community participation and technology, stressing the importance of state police and community policing.
The activist stated that the annulment of the June 12 election didn’t just mark a turning point in Nigeria’s democratic journey, it is a symbol of its democratic culture, resilience and self awareness.