I join all well-meaning Nigerians at home and in the diaspora in celebrating our nation’s 26th DEMOCRACY DAY. June 12 is not just a date, it is a powerful symbol of the Nigerian spirit: the spirit that refuses to be silenced, that believes in the power of the people, and that dares to dream of a better tomorrow.
As we commemorate this historic day, let us honor the memory of the brave men and women who stood firm in the face of oppression. They gave their time, endured unjust imprisonment, and paid the ultimate price so that our voices could be heard. Among them was Chief MKO Abiola, the acclaimed winner of the June 12, 1993 presidential election, whose courage and sacrifice remain a guiding light for generations to come.
But while we celebrate, we must also reflect. Democracy is not handed down, it is earned, nurtured, and defended. It is not enough to simply mark this day on our calendars; we must make it come alive through our actions, choices, and convictions.
Let us work together to build a Nigeria where every vote counts, where leadership is born from the will of the people, not from the power of manipulation or intimidation. Let us fight for a democracy where truth is upheld, justice is served, and freedom is guaranteed for every citizen.
To do this, we must embrace equity, transparency, and accountability at all levels. Political parties must entrench internal democracy, allowing every member a voice and a choice. Leadership should not be imposed, it must be earned through integrity and service.
Fellow Nigerians, democracy thrives when we participate. Your voice matters. Your engagement matters. Whether you’re a market trader, a student, a farmer, or a professional, you are a stakeholder in Nigeria’s destiny. Let us rise, with renewed hope and unshaken faith, to build the nation our heroes dreamed of.
As we celebrate this Democracy Day, may it reignite our passion for a freer, fairer, and more united Nigeria, a Nigeria where no one is left behind.
Happy Democracy Day! God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria 🇳🇬.
Signed:
Dr. Temitope Oladimeji (OTOPE)
Director-General, Oyo State Liaison Office for Abuja & Lagos
June 12, 2025
