Abuja: The Social Democratic Party (SDP) presidential candidate in 2023, Prince Adewole Adebayo, has urged Nigerians to renew their commitment to democracy, credible elections, constitutional governance, and the welfare of the people. Adebayo made the call in a Democracy Day message issued on Friday in Abuja to mark the 33rd anniversary of the June 12, 1993, presidential election.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Adebayo described June 12 as a sacred reminder of the power of the people’s will and the sacrifices made by patriots in the struggle for democratic rule. He emphasized that the June 12 election, won by the late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola on the platform of the SDP, represented a historic opportunity for Nigeria to demonstrate democratic leadership on the African continent. Adebayo criticized the annulment of the election by the military government as a betrayal of the Constitution and the sovereignty of Nigerians.
The SDP chieftain paid tribute to the late MKO Abiola, his wife, Kudirat Abiola, and other Nigerians who made sacrifices in defense of democracy. He also acknowledged former President Muhammadu Buhari for officially recognizing June 12 as Nigeria’s Democracy Day. However, Adebayo expressed concern that 33 years after the historic election, the country was still grappling with many democratic challenges.
He cited issues such as pressure on political parties, shrinking civic space, interference by law enforcement agencies in politics, and weak internal party democracy. Other challenges listed included vote buying, electoral violence, and lack of credibility in elections. Adebayo argued that Nigeria could not truly honor June 12 by merely observing a public holiday but by building a political system where votes count, institutions remain independent, and leaders emerge through free, fair, and credible elections.
Adebayo called for a government that would uphold the Fundamental Objectives and Directive Principles of State Policy contained in Chapter Two of the Constitution, prioritizing the welfare, security, and well-being of citizens at the center of governance. He emphasized the need for leaders who would faithfully implement the Constitution and utilize the nation’s resources for the benefit of the people.
The SDP presidential candidate added that Nigeria had a responsibility to project hope, dignity, and leadership to Africa and the global Black community. While acknowledging that poverty, insecurity, and other national challenges had weakened public confidence in democracy, Adebayo maintained that democratic governance remained the best option for the country.
Reflecting on his upbringing under military rule, Adebayo expressed a strong rejection of any return to that era. He concluded by congratulating Nigerians on the occasion of Democracy Day and prayed for peace, progress, and prosperity in the country.