The presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in the 2023 election, Adewole Adebayo, has urged Nigerians to uphold democratic principles, credible elections, and constitutional governance as the country marks the 33rd anniversary of the June 12, 1993 presidential election.
In a Democracy Day statement issued in Abuja on Friday, Adebayo described June 12 as a landmark event in Nigeria’s political evolution and a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by pro-democracy activists during the struggle against military rule.
He cautioned that the sacrifices of those who fought for democracy should not be forgotten, while expressing concern that several shortcomings that existed before the June 12 era continue to persist.
The SDP chieftain recalled that the June 12, 1993 election, widely regarded as Nigeria’s freest and fairest poll, was won by late Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola, who contested on the platform of the SDP with the slogan “Farewell to Poverty.”
According to Adebayo, Abiola’s victory demonstrated the ability of Nigerians to unite across ethnic, religious, and regional lines in pursuit of a common vision.
He criticised the annulment of the election by the military government, describing it as an assault on constitutional order and the will of the 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 said.
Adebayo paid tribute to MKO Abiola, his wife, Kudirat Abiola, and numerous Nigerians who endured persecution, imprisonment, and even death during the fight to restore democratic governance.
He also acknowledged former President Muhammadu Buhari for officially recognising June 12 as Nigeria’s Democracy Day.
While noting that Nigeria returned to civilian rule in 1999, Adebayo argued that the country must continue working to strengthen democratic institutions and protect the integrity of the electoral process.
“As we approach another general election, every Nigerian has a role to play in enthroning true democracy. June 12 must not be in vain. The labour of our heroes past must not be allowed to go to waste,” he said.
The SDP leader also called for greater commitment to the implementation of Chapter Two of the Constitution, particularly provisions relating to citizens’ welfare, security, and social justice.
According to him, Nigeria needs leaders who emerge through the genuine will of the people and are dedicated to using the nation’s resources for the collective benefit of all citizens.
“I was born and raised under military rule, and I will never wish for that dark era to return. We must confront the problems facing our democracy and ensure that Nigeria reaches the democratic destination our heroes fought for,” he said.
