June 12: Gabam-led SDP pays tribute to Abiola, seeks credible elections

Nigeria's Social Democratic Party (SDP), under the leadership of Shehu Gabam, has honored the memory of Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola, the presumed winner of the annulled June 12, 1993 presidential election. On Nigeria's Democracy Day, the party emphasized the significance of June 12 in the nation's history and the SDP's own legacy.

In a statement issued by factional National Publicity Secretary Zakari Nadabo, the party paid tribute to Abiola and other pro-democracy activists, civil society groups, journalists, and citizens whose efforts helped restore democratic rule after military regimes. "We pay tribute to the courage, sacrifice and patriotism of the late Chief MKO Abiola and all heroes of democracy who stood firm in defence of democratic ideals during one of the most challenging periods in Nigeria’s political history," Nadabo stated.

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We pay tribute to the courage, sacrifice and patriotism of the late Chief MKO Abiola and all heroes of democracy who stood firm in defence of democratic ideals during one of the most challenging periods in Nigeria’s political history.

The SDP highlighted that Democracy Day should serve as a moment for national reflection and a recommitment to democratic values. The party urged Nigerians and political leaders to uphold principles that fueled the June 12 struggle, including justice, inclusion, accountability, transparency, national unity, and respect for the people's will. As the political platform that produced the symbol of the June 12 mandate, the SDP reaffirmed its dedication to promoting democratic values, national development, social justice, and the welfare of all Nigerians.

The opposition party also encouraged active and peaceful participation in the democratic process, urging leaders at all levels to prioritize national interests over personal or political ambitions. The statement underscored the ongoing need for credible elections and robust democratic institutions.

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As the political platform that produced the symbol of the June 12 mandate, the SDP reaffirms its commitment to promoting democratic values, national development, social justice and the welfare of all Nigerians.