Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji has urged Nigerians to keep faith in democracy and continue supporting efforts aimed at strengthening governance and national development.
The governor made the appeal in a Democracy Day message to Nigerians, describing June 12 as a significant date in the country’s political history.
According to Oyebanji, Democracy Day provides an opportunity for citizens to reflect on Nigeria’s democratic journey and renew their commitment to the values that promote freedom, participation and good governance.
He noted that June 12 commemorates the historic 1993 presidential election, widely regarded as one of the freest and fairest elections in Nigeria’s history.
The governor paid tribute to the late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola, widely recognised as the symbol of the June 12 struggle. He also honoured the memory of the late Kudirat Abiola and other pro-democracy activists who sacrificed for the nation’s return to civilian rule.
Oyebanji further acknowledged the contributions of several democracy advocates who fought for the recognition of the June 12 mandate and helped sustain the struggle for democratic governance.
The Ekiti governor also praised former President Muhammadu Buhari for officially recognising June 12 as Nigeria’s Democracy Day, a move that gave national significance to the historic election.
He said the June 12 movement demonstrated the willingness of Nigerians to rise above ethnic, religious and cultural differences in support of democratic ideals and the protection of the people’s mandate.
While admitting that democracy is not without challenges, Oyebanji maintained that it remains the best system of government because it allows citizens to participate in leadership selection and decision-making.
The governor stressed the need for Nigerians to support constitutional democracy, uphold the rule of law and strengthen institutions that promote accountability and development.
According to him, every citizen has a role to play in building a stronger democracy and ensuring a more prosperous future for the country.
He congratulated Nigerians and the people of Ekiti State on the occasion of Democracy Day and the country’s continued democratic journey, describing it as a milestone worth celebrating.