Gov. Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has called on Nigerians to rededicate themselves to the ideals of democracy by supporting leaders who uphold accountability, transparency and people-first governance.
Aiyedatiwa made the call on Thursday in Akure during Democracy Day celebration themed “June 12: Losses and Gains in Relationship to Today’s Democratic Realities in Nigeria”.
The governor, who said that the June 12 annulment denied Nigeria an opportunity for more accelerated democratic advancement, said the country needed to consolidate the gains of its democratic journey.
Aiyedatiwa paid glowing tributes to late MKO Abiola for laying down his life for democracy, as well as to other prominent figures who played critical roles in the struggle, saying
the sacrifices of the past must not be in vain
According to him, the June 12 election is not only a watershed that has had lasting impacts on our country’s democratic journey, it has also strengthened our collective struggle for freedom, justice and the rule of law.
“The occasion calls for sober reflection on the distance covered so far, and Nigeria has made significant strides since the return to civil rule in 1999.
“In spite of the challenges we faced, we have made notable progress in the consolidation of our democratic institutions.
“Citizens now enjoy greater freedom to express their opinions, assemble, and constructively criticise the government without fear of arrest or harassment.
“Lets continue to push for a better Nigeria and Ondo State in particular, where every citizen can live with dignity, where our diversity is celebrated, and where our democracy is a beacon of hope for generations to come.
“So, we call on citizens of the state and Nigerians at large to rededicate themselves to the ideals of democracy by supporting leaders who uphold accountability, transparency and people-first governance,” Aiyedatiwa said.
Delivering a keynote lecture, Senate Leader, Sen. Michael Opeyemi Bamidele, described June 12 as a symbol of sacrifice, resilience, and a beacon of hope.
Bamidele, represented by the Attorney General of Ondo State, Dr Kayode Ajulo, urged Nigerians not to relent in pushing for a democracy that is inclusive, just and accountable.
The senate leader linked the achievements of President Bola Tinubu’s administration to the legacy of the June 12 struggle.
He said that the president was a leading figure in the fight for the restoration of the annulled mandate.
“Under the Renewed Hope Agenda, the Tinubu administration has embarked on economic reforms, infrastructure development, national security enhancement and improved governance.
“These are direct dividends of the sacrifices of the June 12 struggle
“Let us continue the journey. Let us honour the struggle. Let us build the Nigeria the June 12 dared us to imagine,” Bamidele said.
