Adebayo Urges Commitment to Democracy on June 12 Anniversary

On June 12, 2023, Prince Adewole Adebayo, the presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), called for a recommitment to democratic values in Nigeria, marking the 33rd anniversary of the June 12, 1993 elections. He warned that the labor of the nation's democratic heroes must not be in vain, expressing concern over the persistent democratic deficiencies in the country.

Adebayo described June 12 as a defining moment in Nigeria's political history, highlighting the sacrifices made by pro-democracy activists who struggled against military rule. He noted that the elections held on June 12, 1993, widely regarded as Nigeria's freest and fairest, were won by late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Abiola of the SDP but were annulled by the military government, leading to a prolonged political crisis.

Adebayo condemned the annulment as a violation of the constitution and emphasized that the true essence of June 12 goes beyond an annual public holiday. He urged the government to implement Chapter Two of the Nigerian Constitution, focusing on the welfare and security of citizens.