SDP Candidate Urges Nigerians to Honor June 12 Heroes

The presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party, Prince Adewole Adebayo, has urged Nigerians to commit to democratic values, credible elections, and constitutional governance. This call comes as the country marks the 33rd anniversary of the historic June 12, 1993 presidential election.

He also warned that the efforts of the nation’s democratic heroes must not be in vain. He expressed worry about ongoing democratic issues in the country.

In a message for Democracy Day issued in Abuja on Friday, Adebayo described June 12 as a key moment in Nigeria’s political history. He said it serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by pro-democracy activists who fought against military rule.

The June 12, 1993 presidential election is seen as Nigeria’s freest and fairest. It was won by the late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola of the Social Democratic Party. However, the military government annulled the election, leading to a long political crisis and protests for the return of democracy.

Reflecting on the election, the SDP leader noted that Abiola ran on the SDP platform with the message of "Farewell to Poverty." This message won the support of many Nigerians from different ethnic, religious, and regional backgrounds.

Adebayo condemned the annulment of the election. He called it a violation of the Constitution and the will of the people. He said, "June 12 reminds us that the people are the true owners of power. What happened in 1993 was not just the annulment of an election; it was a betrayal of the Constitution and the sovereignty of Nigerians."

The SDP candidate paid tribute to Chief MKO Abiola, his wife, Alhaja Kudirat Abiola, and the many Nigerians who faced persecution, imprisonment, and death while fighting for democracy. He also recognized the late President Muhammadu Buhari for officially naming June 12 as Nigeria’s Democracy Day.

Even with Nigeria returning to civilian rule in 1999, Adebayo is concerned that many democratic problems from before June 12 are still around. He emphasized that the true meaning of June 12 goes beyond yearly celebrations and public holidays.

He insisted that its ideals can only be honored by strengthening democratic institutions and protecting the electoral process. "As we approach another general election, every Nigerian has a role to play in establishing true democracy. June 12 must not be in vain. The labor of our heroes past must not be wasted," he said.

The SDP candidate also called for a government that focuses on implementing Chapter Two of the Nigerian Constitution. He wants citizens’ welfare and security to be at the heart of governance.

He believes Nigeria needs leaders who are elected by the true will of the people and are dedicated to using the country’s resources for all citizens. "I was born and raised under military rule, and I will never wish for that dark era to return. We must tackle the issues facing our democracy and ensure that Nigeria reaches the democratic future our heroes fought for," he said.