By Precious Mark
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) says democracy in Nigeria is still facing serious challenges 33 years after the historic June 12, 1993 presidential election, describing recent events as evidence that the lessons of that period have not been fully learned.
In a press statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, the party recalled the June 12, 1993 election, widely described as the freest and fairest in Nigeria’s history, and the struggle that followed its annulment.
“We remember the June 12, 1993 election (widely regarded as the freest and fairest in our history) and the sacrifices made to defend the people’s mandate,” the PDP said.
It also noted that Nigerians at the time came together across divisions to defend democracy, but said anti-democratic forces disrupted the process, leading to national unrest and loss of lives.
“Thirty-three years later, the lessons of June 12 ring out more resoundingly than ever, calling on the Federal Government to act responsibly to uphold democracy,” according to the statement.
The party urged government to protect civil liberties, including the rights to peaceful assembly and protest, and called on the electoral body to maintain fairness and transparency ahead of future elections.
However, the PDP strongly criticised the current administration, saying democratic principles are being undermined.
“Reality check, however, provides damning evidence that under this APC-led Federal Government, the lessons of June 12 remain painfully unlearnt,” it stated.
The party further alleged that peaceful protesters were attacked during the Democracy Day commemoration in Abuja, claiming that activist Omoyele Sowore was injured.
“Today, of all days… peaceful protesters were teargassed and assaulted in Abuja. Omoyele Sowore was reportedly injured and hospitalised for doing nothing more than demanding the immediate release of schoolchildren and teachers held hostage across different parts of the country, it said.
The PDP accused the government of focusing more on image and propaganda than governance, warning that such actions weaken democratic progress.
Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, the party urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and committed to protecting democracy.
“The sacrifices of the past must not be reduced to ceremonial memory. They must be active warnings,” it added.