Democracy remains Nigeria's strength, say APC chair and governors

Nigeria's top political figures, including the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, and governors from Lagos and Rivers states, have declared democracy as the nation's most potent force for unity, stability, and national prosperity. Their statements coincided with the 32nd anniversary commemoration of the June 12, 1993, presidential election, a pivotal moment in the country's democratic journey.

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June 12 is one of the most important dates in Nigeria’s democratic journey, representing the courage and sacrifice of countless patriots who stood firmly for justice, electoral integrity, and the sovereignty of the Nigerian people.

In their Democracy Day messages, the leaders staunchly defended the economic reforms initiated by President Bola Tinubu's administration. While acknowledging the initial hardships faced by citizens, they argued that these measures, including the removal of fuel subsidies and the unification of exchange rates, are essential for repositioning Nigeria for sustained long-term growth. They emphasized that meaningful national transformation often necessitates difficult but necessary decisions.

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Democracy Day is not merely another public holiday; it is a solemn reminder of our collective struggle for freedom, representative government, and the right of every Nigerian to determine the destiny of our nation through democratic means.

Professor Yilwatda, in a statement, urged Nigerians to reflect on the profound significance of June 12. He described it as a day representing the courage and sacrifice of patriots who championed justice, electoral integrity, and the sovereignty of the Nigerian people. He stressed that Democracy Day is not merely a public holiday but a solemn reminder of the collective struggle for freedom and representative government.

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It is a celebration of resilience, hope, and the enduring belief that the people’s voice must always prevail.

The APC chairman further underscored that democracy provides Nigeria with a platform for peaceful political participation, enhanced accountability, and the protection of fundamental rights. He called upon all stakeholders, including political leaders, civil society organizations, the media, and religious institutions, to actively promote dialogue, tolerance, respect for the rule of law, and peaceful engagement within the democratic process. He asserted that Nigeria's democracy must always be prioritized above individual ambitions or sectional interests, urging every generation to defend it.

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Every generation has a responsibility to defend democracy. The sacrifices made by our democratic heroes should never be forgotten, nor should we allow actions capable of undermining our constitutional order.