Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has declared that Nigeria is firmly on the right path in its democratic journey, urging citizens to reflect on both the losses and gains since the historic June 12, 1993, presidential election.
Speaking at a commemorative event held at The Dome, Akure, to mark Democracy Day, the Governor described the June 12 election—won by the late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola—as a defining moment in the nation’s political history.
“Today, we commemorate a pivotal moment in our democratic journey as a country. The June 12 election was not only a watershed that has had lasting impacts on our country’s democratic journey, it has strengthened our collective struggle for freedom, justice and the Rule of Law,” Aiyedatiwa said.
He noted that while the annulment of the 1993 election denied the country an accelerated democratic process, Nigeria has nonetheless witnessed considerable progress since the return to civilian rule in 1999.
“In spite of the challenges we faced, we have made notable progress in the consolidation of our democratic institutions. Citizens now enjoy greater freedom to express their opinions, assemble, and constructively criticise the government without fear of arrest or harassment,” the Governor added.
Aiyedatiwa also honoured key figures in the pro-democracy struggle, including MKO Abiola, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, HRH Oba Olu Falae, Balarabe Musa, Chief Gani Fawehinmi, Madam Kudirat Abiola, Chief Abraham Adesanya, and numerous human rights groups and student unions.
Reflecting on this year’s Democracy Day theme—June 12: Losses and Gains in Relationship to Today’s Democratic Realities in Nigeria—the Governor said the nation’s past was marked by setbacks such as economic stagnation, weakened civil engagement, and human rights violations. He however maintained that his administration remains committed to delivering good governance and democratic dividends across sectors.
“Since the commencement of our administration, we have worked tirelessly to ensure that it is people-driven. We are putting adequate security measures in place to ensure peace and safety of lives and property throughout the state,” Aiyedatiwa stated.
He listed the administration’s achievements in education, workers’ welfare, infrastructure, healthcare, security, economic empowerment, agricultural productivity, and rural electrification.
Delivering a keynote lecture, Senate Leader Michael Opeyemi Bamidele—represented by the Attorney General of Ondo State, Dr. Kayode Ajulo—described June 12 as a symbol of national resilience and hope. He recalled the annulment of the 1993 election by General Ibrahim Babangida’s military regime as a betrayal of democracy.
Bamidele identified the “losses” of June 12 as political suppression and democratic delays, but pointed to “gains” such as 25 years of uninterrupted democracy and growing civic consciousness. He also noted President Bola Tinubu’s role in the June 12 struggle and said the President has sustained that legacy through reforms under his Renewed Hope Agenda, focused on governance, security, and economic revival.
Chairman of the occasion, Dr. Tunji Abayomi, called on Governor Aiyedatiwa to preserve the democratic ideals for which Ondo State was known during the June 12 era. He emphasized that democracy must deliver tangible benefits to the people.
Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti, in a vote of thanks, described the event as a major milestone and lauded the Governor for championing democratic values in Ondo State.
The event drew attendance from Deputy Governor Dr. Olayide Adelami, Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly Rt. Hon. Olamide Oladiji, Chief Judge Justice Olusegun Ayedun, Chief of Staff Prince Segun Omojuwa, Head of Service Mr. Bayo Philips, lawmakers, traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil servants, political appointees, and other stakeholders.
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