In commemoration of Nigeria’s Democracy Day, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu delivered his first national broadcast on June 12, 2023.
President Tinubu began by highlighting the significance of the day, which marked exactly thirty years since the annulled June 12, 1993, presidential election that saw the tragic loss of Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola. The President paid tribute to Abiola, describing him as a symbol of democracy whose sacrifice and martyrdom paved the way for Nigeria’s transition from military dictatorship to democratic governance.
Addressing the people of Nigeria, President Tinubu emphasized the importance of democracy in promoting the liberty, dignity, and stability of the country. He highlighted the need for citizens to continuously safeguard and protect the country’s democracy, as it was not gifted to them on a silver platter.
While celebrating the successful conduct of the 7th cycle of elections since the democracy dispensation in 1999, President Tinubu acknowledged that electoral contests could be rancorous and wrangling, but such was the beauty of democracy. He also reiterated that those who lose elections must accept the outcome and seek redress through legal means, as enshrined in the constitution.
In strengthening the rule of law, President Tinubu stated that the harmonization of the retirement age for judicial officers would deter illegal orders that truncate democracy. He also emphasized social and economic justice as a critical pillar of democracy, promising massive investment in transportation infrastructure, education, healthcare, and other public utilities to improve the standard of living of Nigerians.
President Tinubu concluded his address by enjoining Nigerians to recommit themselves to democracy, offering selfless service to the people and delivering concrete democracy dividends in accordance with their electoral promises. He also pledged his commitment to governing with fairness, respect for the rule of law, and upholding the dignity of all Nigerians.
As the first Democracy Day speech delivered by President Tinubu, his eloquent and emotive words are expected to inspire Nigerians to hold steadfastly to the principles of democracy and work together towards building a better Nigeria.
