President Bola Tinubu delivered a national broadcast on the occasion of Nigeria’s 25th anniversary of unbroken democracy, known as Democracy Day, on June 12th, 2024.
1. My esteemed compatriots, I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to each and every one of us on the auspicious occasion of commemorating yet another Democracy Day today, the 12th day of June 2024. Furthermore, this year holds special significance as it signifies a remarkable milestone of 25 years of uninterrupted democratic governance in our beloved nation.
2. On this momentous day, precisely 31 years ago, we embarked on a transformative journey towards attaining the status of a genuine and enduring democratic society.
3. The path we traversed during this journey was arduous and fraught with peril. Throughout the consequential six years that ensued, we valiantly fought and persevered in our quest to secure our inherent rights as human beings, bestowed upon us by the divine hand of our Creator.
4. During this arduous struggle, we mourned the loss of illustrious heroes and heroines. In the pursuit of our democratic aspirations, Chief MKO Abiola, the rightful victor of the presidential election held on June 12, 1993, emerged as the paramount symbol of our democratic struggle. Tragically, he, along with his wife Kudirat, General Shehu Musa Yar’Adua, and Pa Alfred Rewane, among others, made the ultimate sacrifice by laying down their very lives.
5. They courageously relinquished their destinies in order for our nation to have a brighter future.
6. Let us pay tribute to the legacies of Chief Anthony Enahoro, Chief Abraham Adesanya, Commodore Dan Suleiman, Chief Arthur Nwankwo, Chief Chukwuemeka Ezeife, Admiral Ndubuisi Kanu, Chief Frank Kokori, Chief Bola Ige, Chief Adekunle Ajasin, Chief Ganiyu Dawodu, Chief Ayo Fasanmi, Chief Gani Fawehinmi, Chief Olabiyi Durojaiye, Dr. Beko Ransome-Kuti, Chima Ubani, and others who have passed on to the next realm.
7. The contributions of General Alani Akinrinade, Professor Bolaji Akinyemi, Professor Wole Soyinka, Chief Ralph Obioha, Chief Cornelius Adebayo, and many others should always be remembered. They endured the hardships of being in exile for several years.
8. While the pro-democracy activists in exile kept the flame alive, their colleagues at home maintained the pressure on the military leaders. Among the latter are Olisa Agbakoba, Femi Falana, Abdul Oroh, Senator Shehu Sani, Governor Uba Sani, Chief Olu Falae, and other leaders of the National Democratic Coalition like Chief Ayo Adebanjo and Chief Ayo Opadokun.
9. The sacrifices they offered and the invaluable legacy created by their selfless dedication can never be fully compensated. Nor shall it be erased from memory.
10. The Nigerian journalists, alongside the pro-democracy activists, played an indispensable role in our triumph over the military dictatorship. Today, we honour them and the media establishments that stood with them, including The Punch, Guardian, National Concord, Tribune, The News/Tempo, and TELL Magazines. These brave journalists were persecuted and imprisoned by the military authorities for championing free speech and civil liberties.
11. Despite the formidable might of the military government, the seemingly impenetrable walls of dictatorship crumbled. The oppressive fortress is now a thing of the past.
12. The power of an idea, coupled with the power of the people, proved to be mightier than any arsenal or the intimidation tactics of authoritarian leaders.
13. In 1999, our nation broke free from the shackles of military rule and emerged as the most populous democracy in Africa. We became a shining example of democratic self-determination for the black race and one of the largest democracies globally.
14. This transformative moment stands as a significant milestone in human history. We shall forever remain steadfast in this new era, and the records of human progress will forever remember the profound significance of this monumental occasion.
15. Today, a quarter of a century later, we commemorate the twenty-fifth anniversary of our democratic journey.
16. We have successfully navigated the path of democracy, maintaining stability and progress.
17. Democracy holds significant real-life meaning for us, not just a foreign or abstract concept. It is more than just periodic elections where candidates compete.
18. Elections may grab attention, but they are just a part of democracy. It is a way of life that encompasses a broader perspective. A nation can have elections without being democratic, but true democracy requires holding elections.
19. Our tradition of transparent elections and peaceful transitions of power reflects our democratic values.
20. True democracy gives us the freedom to think, live, and pursue our endeavours as we wish.
21. Democracy embraces conflicting ideas and diverse opinions, recognising the variety of human experiences.
22. Democracy encourages the acceptance of differing views without resorting to force or repression.
23. Unlike other forms of government, democracy aims to humble leaders to serve the common good, not narrow interests.
24. Nigeria faced a critical decision twenty-five years ago: to move towards a better future or remain in the darkness of dictatorship.
25. We made the correct decision at that time. We should proceed with that decision now.
26. As citizens of Nigeria, we must remember that, despite the complexities of democracy, it is the most effective form of governance in the long term. We must also be vigilant of those who may attempt to exploit current challenges to undermine or dismantle our democracy, which has already been hard-won.
27. These individuals do not seek to improve the situation but rather to exert control and dominance over others until only their elite group holds power, leaving those outside their circle with diminished lives and autonomy.
28. This is the most significant battle of our time and the primary reason we commemorate Democracy Day.
29. Fellow Nigerians, our democracy is not just a historical event but a living, breathing reality.
30. The essence of this day is not solely to reflect on the past achievements that have brought us to this point.
31. We will forever honour those who made the ultimate sacrifice to pave the way for our nation.
32. I have a unique perspective on this matter. I was part of the group that took risks to usher in our democracy. I now directly benefit from the outcomes of those historic endeavours.
33. As the president of this country, I am morally and legally obligated to uphold this valuable form of governance. I pledge to do everything in my power to safeguard your rights, freedoms, and liberties as Nigerian citizens.
34. Furthermore, I am committed to taking all necessary actions to solidify democracy as the foundation of our society.
35. Despite the numerous challenges we face, I am honoured to lead Nigeria during this critical juncture in our democratic journey.
36. I stand before you to emphasise that our most crucial tasks lie ahead of us. The true test has always been our response to adversity and the remnants of dictatorship.
37. The ultimate challenge is whether we will remain vigilant as the threat of authoritarianism diminishes.
38. Today, as we commemorate the establishment of our political democracy, let us dedicate ourselves to achieving economic democracy as well.
39. I acknowledge the economic hardships confronting our nation.
40. Our economy has long required restructuring, having been built on the unstable foundation of oil dependence.
41. The reforms we have implemented aim to lay stronger groundwork for future growth. While these changes may bring about temporary difficulties, they are essential for long-term economic stability and equitable opportunities for all.
42. Throughout the economic reform process, I will continue to prioritise listening to the concerns of the people and remaining accessible to all.
43. In the same vein, we have engaged in sincere negotiations with labour unions to establish a new national minimum wage. A bill reflecting our agreements will soon be presented to the National Assembly for ratification.
44. Despite calls for a national strike, we have chosen dialogue and cooperation over authoritarian measures, demonstrating our commitment to a peaceful resolution.
45. There were no arrests or threats made against any individual during this process.
51. We are aware of the correct path ahead and we will proceed accordingly!
52. The first signs of a brighter future are now visible on the horizon. A prosperous tomorrow and our ability to attain it are well within our grasp. Democracy and the institutions it creates offer to guide us towards our profound destination.
53. Let us unite and embark on this progressive journey together. Together, let us propel Nigeria towards progress.
54. Let us persist in nurturing the flame of democracy. Let us ensure that the torch remains lit for future generations.
55. May God continue to bestow blessings upon the Federal Republic of Nigeria and safeguard our democracy.
56. I extend my heartfelt wishes to all of us on this joyous occasion of Democracy Day.
PRESIDENT BOLA AHMED TINUBU.
