Unbroken democracy in Nigeria has marked 26 years of progress, with Governor Oyebanji urging citizens to honour the sacrifices of heroes like MKO Abiola and protect democratic gains
Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State has described the past 26 years of uninterrupted democratic governance in Nigeria as a major achievement that has earned the country respect on the global stage.
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He made this known in a statement issued on Thursday by his Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode, in commemoration of this year’s June 12 Democracy Day.
Oyebanji praised the patriotic citizens and pro-democracy activists who fought to restore democratic rule following years of military dictatorship.
He stressed that Nigeria’s current democratic system was secured through the sacrifices, sweat and blood of courageous compatriots, and must therefore be defended at all costs.
According to the governor, the continuation of democratic rule since 1999 reflects the collective resolve of Nigerians to uphold civil governance, despite numerous challenges.
“Twenty-six years of unbroken democracy is a great milestone for Nigeria. This is phenomenal; it is a record and an indication that Nigerians appreciate democracy despite the odds,” he stated.
Paying tribute to the late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola and other democracy martyrs, Oyebanji urged Nigerians to ensure that their struggles were not in vain.
Twenty-six years of unbroken democracy is a great milestone for Nigeria. This is phenomenal.
He stressed that every effort must be made to deepen and protect the country’s democratic institutions.
He also extended congratulations to Nigerians for witnessing another Democracy Day and commended President Bola Tinubu, describing him as a symbol of the June 12 struggle who has now emerged as the nation’s leader.
“It is instructive and symbolic that one of the most prominent agitators for the democracy we presently enjoy, His Excellency, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, has, by providence, become the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
He played a pivotal role in the restoration of civil rule after decades of military dictatorship,” Oyebanji remarked.
He called on citizens to remain patriotic and to work with the President in building a Nigeria that reflects the aspirations of its people.
“Let us continue to support Mr President for us to realise the Nigeria of our dreams,” he said. “As we move on in our democratic journey, let us continue to be more patriotic in our daily activities.
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We must continue to defend this democracy because it was hard-earned and purchased with the sweat and blood of our compatriots.”
