TODAY’S VIEWPOINT IS ON THE IMPORTANCE OF PROTECTING THE NATION’S DEMOCRATIC VALUES. IT IS WRITTEN BY ADEBAYO YUSUF OF OUR NEWS AND CURRENT AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT
June 12 of every year is a day in the records of Nigerian history that holds immense significance for the country and its people.
It was on this day in 1993 that Nigerians went to the polls to elect a new president.
after many years of military rule, the country took steps towards achieving another elected government.
The unofficial results of the election indicated a victory for the late chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale, MKO Abiola, of the social democratic party (SDP).
However, the military regime under the administration of general Ibrahim Babangida annulled the election, attributing it to electoral irregularities.
This development generated protests and unrest across the nation.
the annulment of the election and the subsequent struggles became a rallying cry for democracy, with many Nigerians risking their lives to demand justice and freedom.
the struggle that ensued became a defining moment in Nigeria’s history, highlighting the people’s determination to fight for their democratic rights.
Surprisingly, in 1999, as part of the demand for a democratic elected government, the then head of state, general Abdulsalami Abubakar signed an agreement of a transitional government from military rule to democratic one when Nigerians elected a former head of state, chief Olusegun Obasanjo as the first elected president since the annulment of June 12th, 1993 presidential election.
Nigeria has made significant progress towards sustaining democratic governance since the end of military rule in 1999, however the practice of real democracy in Nigeria is still a work in progress.
Nigeria, since 1999 has held many elections using democratic electoral system, but face many challenges such as electoral malpractices which undermine the integrity of elections.
It is worthy to note that Nigeria has made some significant progress in areas such as increasing participation of the people in the electoral process, media independence for election coverage and international electoral observers.
Furthermore, as part of efforts to keep the hope of democracy alive, the federal government in 2018, under former president Muhammadu Buhari, officially recognised June 12th as a democracy day, abolishing the May 29th of every year as democracy day.
since then, June 12th is celebrated as a national holiday in Nigeria, commemorating the country’s transition to democracy, unity and resilience of the Nigerian people.
It serves as a reminder of the power of the people and the importance of protecting democratic values.
In conclusion, June 12th holds immense significance in Nigeria, symbolizing the country’s struggle for democracy, unity, freedom and honouring the memories of those who fought for democracy.
To this end, the federal government need to again review the 1999 constitution as amended, ensure total judicial independence and review the electoral system to ensure independence, transparency and credibility.
