Lagos: The Presidential Candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has called on Nigerians to draw inspiration from the June 12, 1993 election and work towards ensuring credible, transparent, and people-driven elections in 2027. In a Democracy Day message posted on his X handle on Friday, Obi emphasized that June 12 should serve as a moment for reflecting on the state of Nigeria’s democracy and governance.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Obi urged citizens to assess whether the country’s democratic institutions were living up to the ideals symbolized by the historic 1993 presidential election. He stated that the annual observance of June 12 is an opportunity to ask critical questions about the nation’s electoral process, governance structures, and the social contract between leaders and citizens.
Obi highlighted that June 12 should be a day of significant importance to those who cherish democratic principles. He noted that every year, the date inevitably sparks a critical assessment of the nation’s state. He questioned whether contemporary elections in Nigeria were as transparent as those conducted in 1993 and whether government institutions effectively serve the interests of the people.
The former Labour Party presidential candidate described June 12 as a powerful symbol of both reflection and aspiration. He stated that the day honors a challenging chapter in Nigeria’s history while underscoring the enduring strength of the people’s democratic will. Obi remarked that June 12 remains the emotional and structural foundation of Nigeria’s democratic identity, representing both the tragedy of the annulled 1993 presidential election and the eventual triumph of citizens’ quest for democratic governance.
He concluded by asserting that understanding the significance of June 12 requires an appreciation of its history, evolution, and continued relevance in Nigeria’s democratic journey. He expressed optimism by stating, “A New Nigeria of true democracy is possible.”