June 12: Oyebanji Calls on Nigerians to Maintain Confidence in Democratic System

Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State has called on the people of the state and Nigerians at large to maintain their trust in democracy as a means to increase their participation in governance as patriotic citizens.

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This appeal was made in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode, to commemorate June 12 Democracy Day.

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According to Governor Oyebanji, Democracy Day presents an opportunity for introspection on the nation's journey so far and to reaffirm commitment to upholding democratic ideals and building a stronger state and a more prosperous nation.

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The Governor noted that June 12 marks a significant turning point in the country's political history and its complex democratic journey.

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The statement highlights that June 12 commemorates the 33rd anniversary of the 1993 presidential election, which is widely regarded as the most free, fair, and peaceful national election in Nigeria's history, won by the late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola.

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Governor Oyebanji paid tribute to the symbol of June 12, Chief Abiola, his wife, the late Alhaja Kudirat Abiola, and other heroes and heroines of democracy who made the ultimate sacrifice for Nigerians to enjoy freedom from military rule.

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The Governor also paid tribute to other pro-democracy patriots who fought for the revalidation of June 12 and witnessed the dawn of democracy in 1999, notably President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whom he described as a key figure in sustaining the democratic struggle.

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Governor Oyebanji commended the nation's immediate past President, the late Muhammadu Buhari, for officially recognizing June 12 as Democracy Day in Nigeria.

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According to Governor Oyebanji, June 12 represents the people's willingness to set aside their differences and enthrone democracy, where their freedom of choice and the sanctity of the ballot are respected despite the challenges.

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While acknowledging that democracy is not perfect, Governor Oyebanji maintained that it remains the best form of government, offering every citizen the opportunity to contribute to decision-making and have a say in the choice of their leaders.

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Governor Oyebanji emphasized that every Nigerian has a role to play in strengthening the nation's democracy, upholding constitutionalism, the rule of law, and building stronger institutions to ensure good governance for the benefit of the country and its people.

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The Governor congratulated Nigerians and the people of Ekiti State on witnessing this year's Democracy Day and 27 years of uninterrupted democratic rule, the longest in the nation's political history.