Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, has declared that Nigeria owes a debt of gratitude to the heroes of democracy who endured military brutality, imprisonment, humiliation, and in some cases, paid the supreme price for the nation's democratic journey.
Akume made this statement on Thursday during a Democracy Day Lecture at the State House in Abuja, which formed part of events marking the 2025 Democracy Day celebrations under the theme 'Consolidating on the Gains of Nigeria's Democracy: Necessity of Enduring Reforms'.
The SGF emphasized that despite numerous military takeovers in West Africa and Sub-Saharan Africa, Nigeria stands as a shining example of democratic resilience with 26 unbroken years of civilian rule.
Nigeria's Democratic Resilience Amid Regional Instability
BenriNews reports that in the last five years, West and Central Africa have witnessed over 10 coup attempts since August 2020, with military juntas replacing elected leaders in Mali, Guinea, Burkina Faso, Niger Republic, and Gabon. Earlier this year, Mali, Niger Republic, and Burkina Faso withdrew from the regional bloc, Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
The former Benue State Governor applauded all heroes of democracy, both living and deceased, for their struggle for a new Nigeria.
"Today's celebration would not have been possible but for the commitment and determination of ordinary Nigerian citizens who stood strong in the face of military oppression, brutality, and rights denial," Akume stated.
"The June 12 struggle was a watershed as millions of our countrymen and women poured out on the streets. From the towns and villages, the cries for democracy and just governance were a movement. That is the June 12 struggle. That movement gave birth to the new democratic regime," he added.
The event was attended by Vice President Kashim Shettima, who represented President Bola Tinubu, along with ministers, heads of agencies and departments, scholars, and other dignitaries.
June 12 commemorates the annulled presidential election of 1993, widely regarded as Nigeria's freest and fairest election, which was won by the late Chief MKO Abiola. The date has since become a symbol of Nigeria's struggle for democratic governance.
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