Nigeria’s Democracy Day was recently changed from May 29th to June 12th and here is why.
The change from May 29th to June 12th was made in 2018 by President Muhammadu Buhari to commemorate the June 12th, 1993 presidential election which was annulled by the Nigeria military President Ibrahim Babangida. This election is considered one of the freest and fairest in Nigeria history and the winner, Moshood Abiola was denied his mandate. The annulment led to wide spread protests, political unrest and late Abiola’s eventually imprisoned in the process and died.
Significance
June 12 represents a significance turning point in Nigeria’s democracy journey. it symbolizes the struggle for democracy and the sacrifices made by pro-democracy activists, and citizens who fought against military rule, the serve as a remember of the importance of upholding democratic principles, freedom and justice.
Today, June 12 is celebrated as Democracy Day in Nigeria, honoring the country’s transition to democracy in 1999 and the struggles that led to it.
The day is marked with speeches, events and celebrations across the country, reflecting on Nigeria’s democratic journey and reinforcing its commitments to democratic values.
Key figure actors.
Moshood Abiola.
The winner of the June 12th presidential election who was denied his mandate and later died in prison under mysterious circumstances.
Former Nigeria military President General Ibrahim Babangida who annulled the June 12th 1993 election plunging Nigeria into political chaos.
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo who led Nigeria’s transition to democracy in 1999 and was sworn in on May 29th.
In conclusion, Nigeria history to democratic journey on course and is in a work -in – progress.
– Benjamin Ibrahim, a Freelancer, writes from Lokoja.
