Abayomi Susan
Thirty-three years ago, Nigerians transcended ethnic, religious, and regional differences to participate in what is widely regarded as the freest, fairest, and most credible election in the country’s history. The June 12, 1993 presidential election, believed to have been won by Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola, reflected the collective aspiration of Nigerians for democracy, national unity, and accountable governance.
The annulment of that historic election was a significant setback to the nation’s democratic journey. However, the sacrifices made by Chief MKO Abiola, his wife, Kudirat Abiola, pro-democracy activists, journalists, labour leaders, civil society organisations, students, and countless Nigerians laid the foundation for the democratic system the country enjoys today.
As Nigeria commemorates Democracy Day 2026, the Centre Against Injustice and Domestic Violence (CAIDOV) emphasizes that June 12 represents far more than a public holiday. It serves as a powerful reminder that democracy is not self-sustaining; it must be continually protected, strengthened, and made relevant to the everyday realities of citizens.
Although Nigeria has maintained uninterrupted democratic rule since 1999, many citizens still grapple with economic challenges, insecurity, unemployment, inadequate infrastructure, and limited access to quality healthcare and education. For millions, the full benefits of democracy remain unrealised.
The enduring lesson of June 12 is that democracy should not be measured solely by the conduct of elections. Its true strength lies in justice, accountability, transparency, inclusiveness, and the ability of government institutions to improve the lives of the people.
To further consolidate democratic governance in Nigeria, CAIDOV calls for three critical actions:
Safeguard Electoral Integrity
Free and credible elections remain the bedrock of democracy. Electoral technologies such as BVAS and IReV must be protected, transparently managed, and effectively deployed to ensure that election outcomes accurately reflect the will of the people. The events of June 12, 1993 must never be allowed to recur.
Strengthen Local Government Autonomy
The dividends of democracy are most visible at the grassroots. Access to quality healthcare, education, roads, water supply, sanitation, and community development depends largely on effective local governance. Granting full financial and administrative autonomy to local governments remains essential for sustainable grassroots development.
Eliminate Violence Against Women in Elections
Women constitute a substantial proportion of Nigeria’s electorate, yet many continue to face intimidation, harassment, violence, and exclusion during political and electoral processes. A democratic system that fails to guarantee the safety and participation of women cannot be considered fully inclusive. Protecting women in politics and elections is therefore fundamental to strengthening democracy.
Speaking on the significance of the occasion, CAIDOV Executive Director, Mr. Gbenga Soloki, stated:
“June 12 was more than an election; it symbolised the right of Nigerians to shape their own future. Chief MKO Abiola and numerous democracy advocates paid a tremendous price to secure the freedoms and representative governance we enjoy today. We honour their sacrifices not merely through remembrance but through meaningful action. Democracy thrives when every vote counts, when public institutions serve citizens effectively, when social services reach those who need them, and when all Nigerians can participate in governance without fear, exclusion, or discrimination.”
As the nation reflects on the sacrifices that paved the way for democratic governance, CAIDOV urges political leaders, public institutions, civil society organisations, and citizens to recommit themselves to the principles of justice, accountability, participation, and public service.
The struggle that began on June 12, 1993 remains an ongoing responsibility. Democracy is not a gift bestowed by leaders; it is a collective obligation that requires the active participation of all citizens.
Democracy is a shared responsibility. Let us renew our commitment to it today.
