Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, has called on Nigerians to renew their commitment to building a stronger, more united and prosperous nation as the country marks this year’s Democracy Day celebration.
In a goodwill message issued on Friday, the governor described June 12 as a defining moment in Nigeria’s democratic journey, noting that the historic 1993 presidential election demonstrated the ability of Nigerians to rise above ethnic, religious and regional differences in pursuit of a common national goal.
According to Sani, although the mandate freely given by Nigerians on June 12, 1993, was annulled, the sacrifices that followed inspired a nationwide democratic movement that eventually led to the restoration of constitutional rule.
“June 12 holds a singular place in the annals of our nation’s history. The historic election of June 12, 1993, revealed the extraordinary capacity of Nigerians to transcend ethnic, religious and regional divisions in pursuit of a shared national destiny,” he said.
“Though that democratic mandate was unjustly annulled, the sacrifices that ensued ignited a national movement, ultimately restoring constitutional rule and laying the foundation for the freedoms we cherish today.”
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Reflecting on his role in the pro-democracy struggle, the governor paid tribute to key figures who championed the fight for democracy, including the presumed winner of the June 12 election, Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola, as well as Chief Gani Fawehinmi, Dr. Beko Ransome-Kuti, Hajiya Kudirat Abiola, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Col. Dangiwa Umar (Rtd), and other democracy activists.
“As one who actively participated in the pro-democracy struggle, I reflect with profound respect and deep gratitude on the sacrifices made by these patriots who risked their liberty, comfort and, in some instances, their very lives in defence of democracy,” he stated.
“Their courage serves as a timeless reminder that freedom is never free, and democracy must never be taken for granted.”
The governor noted that this year’s Democracy Day celebration is particularly significant as it marks more than 27 years of uninterrupted democratic governance under the Fourth Republic, the longest period of constitutional rule in Nigeria’s history.
He highlighted the successful conduct of seven consecutive general elections and peaceful transfers of power at both national and sub-national levels as evidence of the resilience and growth of Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
“During this epoch, our nation has successfully conducted seven consecutive general elections, witnessed peaceful transfers of power at both national and sub-national levels, and demonstrated that democratic institutions can endure, adapt and strengthen over time,” he said.
Sani further described the freedoms enjoyed by Nigerians to associate, organise politically, contest elections and participate in governance as among the greatest achievements of the country’s democratic experience.
He urged citizens to continue supporting democratic ideals, national unity and inclusive development as Nigeria works towards a more prosperous future.