The Social Democratic Party (SDP) has described June 12 as a defining milestone in Nigeria’s democratic history, while lamenting that the country remains hindered by entrenched leadership failings and political betrayal.
In a statement marking the 2024 Democracy Day, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Mr. Rufus Aiyenigba, said June 12, 1993, would forever stand as a pivotal moment that reshaped Nigeria’s political landscape and national consciousness.
“Today, Nigeria celebrates yet another national anniversary of the pride of place in our political history and the indelible marks that June 12, 1993, made in our national life, particularly as a historic watershed and being emblematic of our democracy, and shaping our collective efforts at nation-building,” Aiyenigba said.
The SDP paid tribute to the late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Abiola, widely regarded as the symbol of Nigeria’s democratic rebirth, praising his ultimate sacrifice for the restoration of civil rule.
“The SDP notes the date with fond reminiscences and great reverence to the memory of the immortal symbol of our nascent democracy, the late business mogul and African icon, Bashorun Moshood Abiola, who treaded the heroic path of the uncommon sacrifice of becoming a martyr, so democratic rule could take firm roots in Nigeria,” the statement read.
Reflecting on the events of June 12, 1993, when Abiola won what is still considered Nigeria’s freest and fairest election before the result was annulled by the military, the SDP described it as a crucial turning point.
“June 12, 1993, was quite a defining moment in our journey towards democratic rule, and the date has become an eternal reference point in our journey towards nation-building,” Aiyenigba stated.
“Today, as always, we celebrate the great sacrificial exertions of the late generalissimo of the Yoruba, whose fame, impact and influence transcended his exalted noble title, as he became a national symbol of true service and the torch-bearer for national redemption,” the statement continued.
However, the SDP expressed deep concern over Nigeria’s current state, warning that the dreams of Abiola and the sacrifices made by many pro-democracy heroes were being squandered by a political class disconnected from the people.
“As we mark this great day, Nigeria is sadly bogged down by the yoke of leadership conspiracy and the country is not appreciably moving towards attaining the lofty dreams and great vision Abiola had for Nigeria and the people.
“It is an understatement that our nation is today, faced with arrested development in all areas that matter.”
“Going by what currently obtains, and beyond political arguments, tokenism in mandate delivery, vacuous grandstanding, and the shenanigans of the political elites, our nation is not anyway near the true ideals of the democracy for which Abiola fought and died.
“We do not appear to be on the desirable path of meeting the yearnings and aspirations of our people.”
“The government, today, is far detached from the noble cause of banishing poverty; engendering a sane society and safe Nigerian landscape; of committing to making life truly meaningful for all Nigerians; of enthroning equity, social justice, and of building a good Nigerian society for all.”
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