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June 12: A Defining Moment in Nigeria’s Democracy
Published
3 years agoon
June 12 holds a significant place in Nigeria’s history, marking a pivotal moment in our journey toward democracy. This watershed day remains etched in our collective memory, symbolizing the unity, struggles, and resilience of the Nigerian people.
The Struggle for Democracy.
On June 12, 1993, Nigerians came together as never before, setting aside their differences in beliefs and worth. They united in casting their votes for Moshood Kasimawo Olawale Abiola, a beacon of hope representing the Social Democratic Party (SDP). The overwhelming support for Abiola’s candidacy overshadowed the National Republican Convention (NRC) in a decisive victory. However, little did we know that a sinister plan had been hatched by Ibrahim Babangida and his civilian co-conspirators.
Deception and Betrayal.
Despite the people’s mandate, a web of deception was spun, giving the impression that democracy had arrived. In reality, it was a ploy to rob the Nigerian people and our nation of the taste of victory and the gift of true democracy. On the eve of the election, Abiola emerged as the clear winner, yet armed men, mere puppets in the military’s game, stole his rightful triumph, igniting chaos and unrest across the country.
The Imprisonment of Hope:
Undeterred by this injustice, Abiola boldly declared himself as the President-elect, undaunted and unyielding. This act of defiance angered Sani Abacha, who emerged as a new force in the power game chess. Abiola was imprisoned, and confined to a desolate space, while the cry for justice resonated among the masses and the international community.
Years of Struggle.
For four long years, Abiola endured the harsh reality of life behind bars, deprived of human contact. Despite the immense pressure, he remained resolute, refusing to relinquish his hard-earned victory in exchange for his release. The spirit of Abiola stood firm, undeterred by the forces of oppression.
False Hopes and Tragic Loss.
As the second anniversary of his imprisonment approached, rumors circulated that Abacha had met his demise. Speculation arose that Abiola’s release was imminent, raising hopes across the nation. However, the military’s grip tightened as Abdulsalam assumed power, and Abiola’s supposed journey to freedom turned into a tragic tale. The nation was thrown into mourning when news broke that Abiola had passed away, denied the chance to reclaim his rightful position as the nation’s Commander-in-Chief.
Recognition and Reflection.
More than two decades later, Abiola was posthumously recognized for his contributions. The Grand Commander of the Federal Republic (GCFR) honor was bestowed upon him, a belated tribute to his enduring legacy. June 12 became Nigeria’s new Democracy Day, signifying not only disappointment and injustice but also the collective power of the Nigerian people in their fight against tyranny.
Lessons for the Future
On the occasion of June 12, we commemorate the advancements Nigeria has achieved despite the hurdles it confronts. However, as citizens, this commemoration binds us to acknowledge the necessity for robust establishments of strong institutions rather than powerful individuals, both men, and women. It is only when we establish institutions that will uphold the supremacy of the law and foster inclusivity can we take a backseat to saying our democracy has come of age.
As many have expressed, our democracy is still in its infancy, and like in other parts of the world, it remains an ongoing endeavor. Nevertheless, it requires our unwavering vigilance and active engagement by holding elected officials from various political affiliations answerable for their actions in fulfilling the benefits of democracy and as a means to prevent the impoverishment of the very people they have pledged to safeguard. Let us keep in mind this day and its significance in the annals of our democratic journey, ensuring that the sacrifices made on June 12 are not rendered futile. Instead, let us unite in our efforts to forge a Nigeria that is fair, just, and prosperous, where the color or creed of individuals holds no significance, and where humanity always takes precedence.
In conclusion, let us remember that our fallen heroes of June 12 serve as a poignant reminder that Nigeria’s journey toward democracy was not easily achieved. It was through the unwavering resilience and indomitable spirit of the Nigerian people that we have reached this day. This necessitates deep contemplation on how we handle this delicate gift, which has been entrusted to us by the struggles of the past. Today, many families struggle to secure even a single nourishing meal, let alone two. This compels us to reflect soberly on how we have missed opportunities in the past and how we are on the brink of missing them today. Unless we unite as a people, setting aside our collective greed and eradicating corruption from our nation, we will continue to face these challenges.
While our leaders have called for sacrifices from the citizens they lead, it is crucial to ask whether they are prepared to sacrifice their comforts and address the issue of wasteful spending that hinders progress and nation-building. They must be willing to make decisions that will shape our collective destiny and alter the course of governance at all levels, fulfilling the aspirations of all citizens.
Allow me to leave you with this profound quote by Obafemi Awolowo: “The government owes as much duty to the individual citizens as the latter does to them.”
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Iran War Disrupts Oil Supply, Global Loss Hits $50bn
Published
5 days agoon
April 18, 2026By
Mega IconThe global oil market has recorded losses exceeding $50bn following massive supply disruptions triggered by the ongoing Iran war, which has now stretched to nearly 50 days.
Data from energy analytics firm Kpler showed that more than 500 million barrels of crude oil and condensate have been wiped off the global market since the crisis began in late February, making it the largest energy supply disruption in modern history.
Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araqchi, on Friday said the Strait of Hormuz had been reopened after a ceasefire agreement reached in Lebanon.
However, tensions escalated again on Saturday as Tehran warned it could shut the strategic waterway if the United States sustains its blockade of Iranian ports.
Also, U.S. President Donald Trump expressed optimism that a deal to end the conflict could be reached “soon,” although he did not provide a definite timeline.
Analysts warned that the scale of disruption could have prolonged effects on global energy stability, with shocks expected to linger for months or even years.
Providing context, Principal Analyst at Wood Mackenzie, Iain Mowat, said the 500 million barrels lost is equivalent to grounding global aviation demand for 10 weeks, halting all road transport worldwide for 11 days, or shutting down the entire global oil supply for five days.
Further estimates showed that the lost volume is nearly equal to one month of oil demand in the United States or more than a month’s supply for Europe. It also represents about six years of fuel consumption by the U.S. military and could power global shipping activities for approximately four months.
The crisis has significantly affected oil-producing nations in the Gulf, with output losses reaching about eight million barrels per day in March—roughly equivalent to the combined production of two of the world’s largest oil companies.
Jet fuel exports from major producers, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman, dropped sharply from 19.6 million barrels in February to just 4.1 million barrels recorded across March and April combined. Analysts said the shortfall could have powered about 20,000 round-trip international flights.
With crude prices averaging around $100 per barrel since the onset of the conflict, the lost volumes translate to an estimated $50bn in revenue. Experts noted that this figure is equivalent to about one per cent of Germany’s annual Gross Domestic Product, or roughly the size of the economies of smaller European countries.
Meanwhile, global onshore crude inventories have declined by about 45 million barrels in April alone, while total production outages have risen to approximately 12 million barrels per day since late March.
Industry experts cautioned that unless a lasting resolution is reached, the disruption could intensify volatility in global oil markets, worsen inflationary pressures, and further strain fragile economies worldwide.
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Oseni Secures Prestigious City People Political Award Nomination
Published
6 days agoon
April 16, 2026By
Mega IconA member of the House of Representatives representing Ibarapa East/Ido Federal Constituency and Chairman of the House Committee on Federal Roads Maintenance Agency, Aderemi Oseni, has been nominated for a Special Award in Politics at the 2026 City People Political Awards.
The nomination was conveyed in a letter dated April 13, 2026, signed by the Publisher/Editor-in-Chief of City People Magazine, Seye Kehinde.
The development was disclosed in a statement issued by Oseni’s media aide, Idowu Ayodele, and made available to journalists in Ibadan on Thursday.
According to the statement, the lawmaker earned the nomination in recognition of his “outstanding contributions to politics in Oyo State, particularly in Ibarapa East/Ido Federal Constituency.”
The organisers noted that Oseni emerged as a nominee following a comprehensive review of performances across sectors by the award’s selection committee.
Part of the letter read, “Having performed creditably well in your sector last year, the Organising Committee presented you as a nominee in your sector.”
The award ceremony is scheduled to hold on Sunday, May 3, 2026, at Etal Hall, Kudirat Abiola Way, Oregun, Ikeja, Lagos, at 4pm.
The City People Awards is an annual event that recognises individuals who have distinguished themselves in governance, public service and other sectors of national development.
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Kaduna Electric to prosecute, expose attackers of staff
Published
7 days agoon
April 16, 2026By
Mega IconThe Kaduna Electricity Distribution Company has announced a crackdown on individuals who assault its staff, warning that offenders will face prosecution and public exposure.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the company expressed concern over what it described as a “disturbing surge” in attacks on its field workers and third-party partners.
It noted that the affected personnel were mainly engaged in meter installation, revenue collection and maintenance of electricity infrastructure.
According to the firm, the increasing cases of harassment, physical assault and unlawful detention of its workers pose a serious threat to employee safety and the stability of electricity service delivery across its franchise areas.
The Deputy Managing Director, Abubakar Mohammed, said the company would no longer tolerate any form of aggression against its workforce.
“Let this serve as a clear warning to anyone who engages in the assault of our staff. Kaduna Electric will pursue every case to its logical conclusion,” he said.
“We will work closely with security agencies to ensure offenders are brought to justice and face the full weight of the law,” Mohammed added.
He further disclosed that the company would publicly reveal the identities of individuals found culpable.
According to him, names, photographs and other details of offenders would be published on the company’s official platforms as well as in national and local media.
“This measure is intended to ensure accountability and serve as a strong deterrent. Anyone who chooses to attack our personnel should be prepared not only to face prosecution but also public exposure,” he added.
The company stressed that assaults on utility workers attract serious legal and financial consequences, noting that offenders risk criminal charges that may lead to fines or imprisonment.
It added that perpetrators could also face civil liabilities, including compensation for medical treatment, psychological trauma and loss of work hours.
While condemning the attacks, Kaduna Electric urged customers to adopt peaceful and lawful means of resolving disputes.
It advised aggrieved customers to channel complaints through its customer service units or appropriate regulatory bodies.
The management reaffirmed its commitment to protecting its workforce and partners, stressing that a safe working environment is essential for delivering reliable and efficient electricity services.
Although disputes between electricity providers and consumers are often linked to billing issues, metering challenges and service delivery concerns, the company maintained that such matters must be resolved through dialogue, insisting that violence against its staff will no longer be tolerated.
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