FIC Report (Ekiti State) – Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji has urged Nigerians to remain steadfast in their commitment to democratic governance, describing democracy as the most viable platform for citizens to actively participate in governance and contribute to national development.
The Governor made the call in a statement issued on Thursday to commemorate the 2026 Democracy Day celebration. The statement, signed by his Special Adviser on Media, Mr Yinka Oyebode, stressed the need for Nigerians to sustain their faith in democratic ideals despite the challenges confronting the nation.
Oyebanji said Democracy Day provides an opportunity for citizens to reflect on Nigeria’s democratic journey, appreciate the sacrifices of pro-democracy activists, and renew their commitment to strengthening democratic institutions and good governance.
According to him, June 12 remains a watershed in Nigeria’s political history, symbolizing the struggle for freedom, justice, and the people’s right to choose their leaders through credible elections.
The Governor noted that the day marks the 33rd anniversary of the June 12, 1993 presidential election, widely regarded as the freest, fairest and most peaceful election in the nation’s history, won by the late business mogul and democracy icon, Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola.
He paid glowing tributes to Chief Abiola, his late wife, Alhaja Kudirat Abiola, and other heroes and heroines of democracy who made immense sacrifices, including laying down their lives, in the struggle to end military rule and restore democratic governance in Nigeria.
Oyebanji also acknowledged the contributions of several pro-democracy activists who championed the validation of the June 12 mandate and fought for the return to civilian rule, particularly President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whom he described as one of the pillars of the democratic struggle.
Oyebanji further commended Nigeria’s immediate past President, Muhammadu Buhari, for officially recognizing June 12 as the nation’s Democracy Day, saying the gesture helped to preserve the legacy of the democratic movement and honour those who fought for it.
Reflecting on the significance of the June 12 election, Oyebanji said it demonstrated the willingness of Nigerians to rise above ethnic, religious, linguistic and cultural differences in pursuit of a common democratic goal.
He maintained that although democracy may not be perfect, it remains the best system of government because it guarantees citizens the freedom to participate in decision-making processes and choose their leaders through the ballot.
He emphasized that all Nigerians have a responsibility to strengthen democracy by upholding constitutionalism, respecting the rule of law, and supporting the development of strong institutions capable of delivering good governance and sustainable development.
The Governor congratulated Nigerians and the people of Ekiti State on the celebration of Democracy Day and the nation’s 27 years of uninterrupted democratic rule, describing it as the longest democratic experience in Nigeria’s political history.
Oyebanji urged citizens to remain united and committed to the ideals of democracy in order to build a stronger, more prosperous and inclusive nation.
Omotola Oluyemisi
AD (I&PR)
12/06/2026.
