News
June 12: A Defining Moment in Nigeria’s Democracy
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.”
President Bola Tinubu has transmitted a Constitution Alteration Bill to the Senate seeking the establishment of state police as part of efforts to reform Nigeria’s security architecture.
The proposed legislation, contained in a communication dated June 15, 2026, was read during plenary on Tuesday by Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
Tinubu said the bill was aimed at providing a legal framework for a dual policing structure that would allow states to establish and operate their own police services alongside the Nigeria Police Force.
According to the President, the proposed amendment forms a key component of ongoing efforts to restructure the country’s policing system to improve security and enhance the protection of lives and property.
He explained that under the arrangement, communities, municipalities and local government areas would play more active roles in policing, enabling local authorities to detect suspicious activities and promptly relay intelligence to security agencies.
Following the presentation, Akpabio referred the bill to the Senate Committee on Constitution Review and directed it to report back on Wednesday.
Speaking on the importance of community-based policing, the Senate President said local authorities were better placed to identify security threats and support proactive responses by law enforcement agencies.
“You will know when foreigners infiltrate Nigeria and alert security agencies so they can react proactively rather than reactively,” he said.
Akpabio expressed optimism that sustained collaboration between the executive and legislative arms would ensure the successful passage and implementation of the initiative.
He disclosed that the process would be undertaken in phases through constitutional amendments and subsequent Acts of Parliament.
“We will do it in two phases through alteration and an Act of Parliament. There will be a lot of safeguards; let us come and do this important task. It is extremely important that we come tomorrow,” he said.
The Senate President also informed lawmakers that plenary would not entertain other major business following the death of a member of the House of Representatives, Yahaya Tongo of Gombe State.
Similarly, the Senate Leader urged senators to attend the next sitting, stressing the significance of the proposed state police framework.
“We need a minimum of two-thirds of members to vote on constitutional alterations. The issue of state police is non-partisan and cuts across geopolitical zones and interests,” he said.
The latest development came barely two weeks after the Senate passed an executive bill on state police for second reading.
Akpabio said the fresh Constitution Alteration Bill transmitted by the President builds on the earlier proposal and seeks to provide the constitutional foundation necessary for the establishment and operation of state police services across the country.
The family of the late veteran actor and scholar, Chief (Prof.) Adekola “Kola” Oyewo, has expressed deep appreciation to Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, among other Nigerians, for their messages of condolence and support following the death of their patriarch.
In a statement issued on Saturday by Dr. Adewale Oyewo on behalf of the family, the bereaved household said the overwhelming show of sympathy, prayers, visits and acts of kindness from across Nigeria and beyond had served as a strong pillar of comfort in their period of grief.
The family described the late Oyewo as a respected community leader, accomplished academic, devoted family man, and traditional title holder whose life was defined by service, integrity, and unwavering commitment to societal development.
According to the statement, the tributes received in his honour reflect the far-reaching impact he made on students, colleagues, cultural practitioners and the wider society.
The family particularly appreciated Governor Ademola Adeleke for his condolence message and prayers, noting that his support had been deeply comforting.
It also expressed gratitude to the Ooni of Ife, whose words of encouragement were described as uplifting and consoling during the mourning period.
The statement further acknowledged the Oloba of Oba-Ile, Oba (Prof.) Adekunle Ashamu Oyeyemi (Tewogbade I), the Oloba-in-Council, and other traditional institutions for their fatherly support and solidarity.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar was also commended for his message of sympathy, which the family said brought reassurance in their moment of loss.
The family extended appreciation to professional bodies including the National Association of Nigerian Theatre Arts Practitioners (NANTAP) and the Theatre Arts and Motion Pictures Practitioners Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN), as well as academic communities of Obafemi Awolowo University, Redeemer’s University, Ekiti State University, and Elizade University, where the deceased served.
They also thanked friends, associates and well-wishers who stood by them with prayers and support.
“As we continue preparations to honour the life and legacy of our beloved patriarch, we humbly seek continued prayers and support,” the statement added, praying for the peaceful repose of his soul.
The Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, has appointed Anietie Iniedu as the new Public Relations Officer of the Nigeria Police Force, succeeding Anthony Placid, who was appointed to the position barely three months ago.
The appointment was announced in a statement issued on Friday by Placid, who described his successor as a seasoned police officer with extensive experience in public communication, operational policing, intelligence management, institutional accountability and administration.
An indigene of Etinan Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, Iniedu holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Pure Chemistry from the University of Uyo and has attended several professional courses in investigative interviewing, crime scene management, intelligence analysis, strategic communication and human rights-based policing.
Before his latest appointment, Iniedu headed the Complaint Response Unit at the Force Headquarters, Abuja, where he coordinated the management of public complaints and drove initiatives aimed at deepening transparency, accountability and public trust in the Nigeria Police Force.
He also served as Public Relations Officer of the Police College of Information Technology, Kobape, Ogun State, in addition to holding several operational and administrative positions across the country.
His previous postings include Operations Officer at the Maisandari Division in Yobe State, Area Crime Officer at the Umuahia Area Command in Abia State, Staff Officer at the IGP Secretariat, Force Headquarters, Second-in-Command of the 50 Police Mobile Force Squadron, Kubwa, and Officer-in-Charge of the Force Headquarters Situation Room, where he coordinated the dissemination of crime and security information nationwide.
The statement quoted the Inspector-General as expressing confidence in Iniedu’s capacity to lead the Force Public Relations Department, noting that his wealth of experience and professional background would further strengthen the police’s strategic communication architecture and enhance engagement with members of the public.
-
Politics1 week ago2027: Oseni Mobilises Oyo Artisans, Traders, Targets One Million Votes for Tinubu
-
News3 days ago
Kola Oyewo’s family to Adeleke, Ooni, Atiku: Your condolences are our pillar of strength
-
Opinion7 days ago
The Silent Thief in Nigeria’s Petrol Stations | By Solomon Oroge
-
Politics5 days ago
Oyo APC rejects Makinde’s planned December LG poll, vows boycott
