Democracy is defined by Abraham Lincoln. as “government of the people ,by the people and for the people.” Is this really true in all democracies of the world? That is a poser for the world.
Democracy Day in Nigeria is celebrated annually on June 12. It commemorates the restoration of democracy in Nigeria after a long years of military rule, specifically marking the 1993 elections, which were widely regarded as the freest and credible elections in the country’s political history.
This day, June 12, not only celebrates democratic governance but also serves as a reminder of the struggles for political freedom and people’s rights to vote and be voted for in Nigeria.
The significance of June 12 can be traced back to the 1993 presidential elections where the late business mogul- turned- politician, Chief Moshood Kashimawo Abiola emerged as the winning candidate.
Notwithstanding , the election was annulled by the military government of President Ibrahim Babangida, which led to widespread protests, political turmoil, and a long struggle for the return to democratic governance.
In 2018, the Nigerian government of President Muhammadu Buhari, after a meticulous and expansive deliberations and consultations, officially recognized June 12 as the Democracy Day, (after a long wait), replacing the controversial previous date of May 29 selfishly picked by former President Obasanjo, which marked the transfer of power to him as a civilian President in 1999.
The official acknowledgment of Democracy Day has enhanced public awareness regarding the importance of democratic principles and the historical context of Nigeria’s democracy. Those who had never thought of a special day like this now understand the reason for picking the June 12 as a honour not only for MKO Abiola but for the spirit of unity of purpose at the polls at that period devoid of ethnicity or religious affiliations.
Because of its awareness and to let the children born at that time (who are now grown up) be sensitive of what the day stands for in the history of their country,events such as symposia, debates, and public discussions are organized to celebrate democracy and reflect on Nigeria’s political history, although, their impact vary by region.
Similarly, June 12(Democracy Day) serves as a platform to encourage civic participation at elections, promoting voter education and engagement. However, the actual engagement levels have been inconsistent, particularly among younger voters who tend to feel disillusioned with the political process. Some youths still feel that older politicians are recycling themselves and still manipulating the game, leaving the youths frustrated thereby preventing them to move to the corridor of power and development of their country.
Accountability is very vital in governance. The electorates would shun any political leader during political campaigns or at elections if such leader cannot adequately account for his stewardship during his tenure in office. However, due diligence and financial prudence can foster greater political accountability, as citizens use democracy day to assess the performances of elected officials against democratic ideals and to know who is who to vote for, in the future elections
This period serves as a time to sensitise the citizens to be watchful of whom to vote for, in the future elections; those that really have the interest of the masses at heart in terms of service and ingenuity of pragmatic and workable manifestos and not just on empty words or rhetoric.
Many Nigerians view Democracy Day critically, citing the ongoing issues with governance, corruption, human rights abuses, insecurity and economic quagmire as evidences that democracy is not functioning effectively in Nigeria. That,as citizens ,we are not really enjoying the real dividend of democracy as it ought to be. That the gap between the so rich and so poor is too wide and the people at the helms of affairs seem not to be bothered. That the gulf between promise and performance is nothing to write home about.
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Critics also argue that while the day serves as a reminder of the struggles for democracy, it also highlights the persistent challenges that threaten its growth and stability, leading to questions about the legitimacy and effectiveness of the democratic process in Nigeria.It is so sad ,that many questions are asked ,about the impact of democracy in Nigeria to which people are not really satisfied with answers sometimes given.
Democracy Day has the potential as a symbol for promoting national unity and cohesion, especially in a country with diverse ethnic and religious groups. However, this potential often clashes with existing regional tensions and divisions. There is still a big gap in the unity among the three major tribes in Nigeria. There are also suspicions. Each of the regions do not trust one another ,but see one another as rivals- three strange bed-fellows.
There is no hard feelings as such about making Democracy work or effective in Nigeria. We should try to engage various stakeholders in discussions about democracy to help cultivate a stronger national identity, though real progress requires collective efforts beyond symbolic gestures.
Though Democracy Day in Nigeria plays a crucial role in promoting awareness of democratic values and the historical struggles for democracy, its effectiveness is tempered by the country’s continuing political and socio-economic challenges.
Greater efforts to ensure civic engagement, transparency, and accountability will be essential to realizing the full potential of this celebration.
Moving forward, both the government and the civil society must work in synergy to address the concerns of citizens, thereby fostering a more robust and effective democratic culture in Nigeria.
Recall, that MKO Abiola sacrificed his life for the good of the greater numbers of the downtrodden. This must not be in vain.
Happy 2025 Nigeria Democracy Day Anniversary and Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
By- Idowu Akintunde
Publisher/Editor-In- -Chief
TheinterviewsNigeria