Tuesday, June 11, 2024

"Federal Government Declares June 12, 2024 a Public Holiday for Democracy Day Celebration"



In a statement made on Tuesday in Abuja, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, Dr. Aishetu Ndayako, announced that the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, had made a declaration on behalf of the Federal Government, congratulating Nigerians on the occasion of the country's Democracy Day.

The Minister stated that as the nation marks another milestone in its democratic history, Nigerians should reflect on the efforts of the country's founding fathers and ensure that Nigeria remains a united entity. He added that Nigeria should strive to be a more secure, peaceful, and indivisible nation for the benefit of all its citizens.

Dr. Tunji-Ojo urged Nigerians to remain steadfast in upholding the tenets of democratic governance. He also expressed the commitment of President Bola Tinubu to implementing positive reforms aimed at reviving the nation's economy and enhancing security.

The Minister called on Nigerians and friends of Nigeria to appreciate the progress that has been made and look forward to a better future for the country's democracy. He wished all Nigerians a happy Democracy Day celebration.

It is worth noting that on June 7, 2018, former President Muhammadu Buhari had directed that the nation's Democracy Day be observed on June 12 of every year, instead of the previously observed date of May 29. Buhari also honored the winner of the annulled June 12, 1993, presidential election, Chief Moshood Abiola, with the highest national honor, the Grand Commander of the Federal Republic.

Buhari further stated that the June 12, 1993, election was the freest, fairest, and most peaceful election since Nigeria's independence, despite the fact that the outcome was not upheld by the then-military government. Buhari also conferred a national honor on Baba Gana Kingibe and recognized the late Gani Fawehinmi for their roles in the actualization of the June 12 elections.

It is important to note that MKO Abiola, the winner of the annulled June 12, 1993, presidential election, died in detention while struggling to actualize his mandate, which was freely given to him by Nigerians.

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