Democracy Day – Tinubu Honors Abiola and Other Heroes, Warns Against Anti Democratic Forces

In his Democracy Day broadcast, President Bola Tinubu praised the winner of the annulled June 12, 1993, presidential election, Chief Moshood Abiola, and other democracy heroes such as General Shehu Musa Yar’Adua and Pa Alfred Rewane. Tinubu celebrated their sacrifices and highlighted the critical role they played in Nigeria’s democratic journey.

Recognition of Democracy Heroes

President Tinubu acknowledged various individuals who made significant sacrifices for Nigeria’s democracy, including:

• Chief Anthony Enahoro
• Chief Abraham Adesanya
• Commodore Dan Suleiman
• Chief Arthur Nwankwo
• Chief Chukwuemeka Ezeife
• Admiral Ndubuisi Kanu
• Chief Frank Kokori
• Chief Bola Ige

He emphasized that these heroes bravely surrendered their futures to secure a better one for the nation, making significant personal sacrifices in the process.

Economic Hardship and Commitment to Reforms

Addressing the nation’s economic challenges, Tinubu acknowledged the hardships faced by Nigerians but justified the need for economic reforms. He stated, “Our economy has been in desperate need of reform for decades,” and emphasized that these reforms are essential to create a stronger foundation for future growth.

Tribute to the Media

Tinubu also paid tribute to the media’s role in the democratic struggle, praising the indomitable spirit of Nigerian journalists and their establishments, such as The PUNCH, The Guardian, and Tribune, which played crucial roles in fighting against military dictatorship.

Warning Against Anti-Democratic Forces

The President warned Nigerians to beware of elements attempting to undermine the current democratic dispensation. He stressed that democracy, despite its complexities, is the best form of governance and urged the nation to remain vigilant against those seeking to exploit current economic challenges to destabilize democracy.

Commitment to Democracy

Tinubu reassured citizens of his commitment to democracy, stating, “I stand uniquely placed in this regard. I was among those who took the risk to midwife the birth of our democracy. I am now a direct and obvious beneficiary of the fruits of those historic efforts.”

He pledged to protect citizens’ rights and freedoms and to solidify democracy as Nigeria’s way of life, emphasizing the importance of maintaining political and economic democracy.

Upcoming Legislation on Minimum Wage

Tinubu revealed plans to submit an executive bill to the National Assembly to codify agreements reached in the ongoing minimum wage negotiations. This legislation aims to enshrine the agreed terms into law for the next five years or less, reflecting the administration’s commitment to addressing labor concerns through cooperation and dialogue.

Concluding Remarks

In his concluding remarks, Tinubu reiterated his dedication to Nigeria’s democratic principles and the well-being of its citizens, vowing to continue reforms and listen to the people to ensure fair pay and economic opportunities for all. He emphasized the need for reasoned discussion and principled compromise in governance, promising to lead impartially and work towards a nation where no one is oppressed.