By Ayomide Otitoju
The announcement was contained in a statement issued on Thursday by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, Magdalene Ajani, on behalf of the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.
According to the statement, the declaration underscores the significance of June 12 in Nigeria’s democratic history and honours the courage, resilience and sacrifices of citizens who fought for the entrenchment of democratic governance in the country.
Tunji-Ojo reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to safeguarding democratic values, including the rule of law, transparency, accountability and inclusive governance, noting that the current administration remains dedicated to strengthening these principles.
The minister stressed the importance of a secure environment in sustaining democracy and promoting national development, adding that the Ministry of Interior would continue to collaborate with security agencies to enhance internal security and protect lives and property nationwide.
He also urged Nigerians to use the occasion for reflection and renew their commitment to responsible citizenship, lawful conduct and national unity.
“As we mark this historic day, every Nigerian is encouraged to remain law-abiding, uphold the institutions that sustain our democracy, and remember that the strength of any democracy lies ultimately in the character of its citizens,” the statement quoted the minister as saying.
Nigeria observes June 12 annually as its official Democracy Day in remembrance of the 1993 presidential election, widely regarded as the freest and fairest election in the nation’s history.
The election was won by Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola, popularly known as MKO Abiola, but the result was annulled by the military government, triggering a prolonged political crisis and intensifying demands for a return to democratic rule.
For nearly two decades, Democracy Day was celebrated on May 29, marking the transition from military to civilian rule in 1999. However, in 2018, former President Muhammadu Buhari moved the observance to June 12 in recognition of the significance of the 1993 election and the sacrifices made by pro-democracy activists.
In 2025, former military Head of State, Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, publicly acknowledged that MKO Abiola won the June 12, 1993 presidential election, expressing regret over the annulment more than three decades after the controversial decision.
The annual Democracy Day celebration is marked by official government events, civic engagements and national reflections on Nigeria’s democratic journey and the collective responsibility of citizens in strengthening democratic institutions.
