President Bola Tinubu on Thursday conferred posthumous national honours on Chief MKO Abiola, Professor Humphrey Nwosu, former President Umaru Musa Yar'Adua, and other notable Nigerians during his Democracy Day address to a joint session of the National Assembly in Abuja.
The conferment, which took place during the June 12 Democracy Day celebrations, recognizes the significant contributions of these individuals to Nigeria's democratic journey. Chief MKO Abiola is widely acknowledged as the winner of the June 12, 1993 presidential election that was annulled, while Professor Humphrey Nwosu served as the chairman of the defunct National Electoral Commission (NEC) that conducted the historic election.
This recognition comes as part of the government's efforts to honor key figures who played pivotal roles in Nigeria's struggle for democratic governance. The late President Umaru Musa Yar'Adua, who was also honored posthumously, is remembered for his commitment to the rule of law and electoral reforms during his tenure.
Democracy Day Celebrations Across Nigeria
In related Democracy Day activities, Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum granted pardon to 66 inmates, while President Tinubu also granted full presidential pardon to Ken Saro-Wiwa and eight other Ogoni activists who were executed during the military regime.
The June 12 Democracy Day, which commemorates the 1993 presidential election, has become a significant date in Nigeria's political calendar, symbolizing the country's commitment to democratic governance despite historical challenges.
During his address, President Tinubu also responded to concerns about Nigeria potentially becoming a one-party state following recent political defections, dismissing such claims as unfounded.
The posthumous honours serve as a reminder of the sacrifices made by various Nigerians in the country's democratic journey and reinforce the current administration's commitment to recognizing these contributions.
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