June 12, Democracy Day, commemorates the historic 1993 presidential election in Nigeria, which is widely regarded as the freest and fairest election in the country’s history. It honors the memory of Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola, the presumed winner, whose victory was annulled, leading to a prolonged struggle for democratic governance.
Ibadan City Announcer spoke with residents to gauge their thoughts on the significance of Democracy Day and how far democracy has progressed in Nigeria.
Adenike Bolarinwa, a civil servant, explained that Nigerians need to do better in commemorating the day. “As a Nigerian, I remember Abiola so well. We don’t celebrate the day enough. Someone made sacrifices for the country, and we don’t take it as seriously as we should. Most of our youths today are just observing the holiday and enjoying it,” she said.
Another respondent, who prefers to be called “Small,” voiced similar views. “When we transitioned to democratic system of government, I bet we didn’t really know what we were getting into or ready for it. Everyone needs to be democratic in nature and practice it in all our dealings to make things work better for us,” he suggested.
Mr. Ademola Adeshina, another civil servant, expressed optimism about the future of democracy in Nigeria. “I remember Abiola very well, just like we are meant to celebrate our heroes past. A lot of changes need to happen to cater for Nigerians, but the changes need to start from us, and the government should do what is expected of them,” he expressed.
A citizen who spoke on condition of anonymity was more critical. “Democracy has not taken the country anywhere better. Every sector is deteriorating. I think we should change back to the military system of government. I have read about the regimes; Nigerians are tough people, and we need tough hands,” he opined.
Another anonymous speaker noted that democracy can thrive in the country if adjustments are made. “Power keeps rotating in the same hands. The presidential system of government in Nigeria needs to be changed because it currently enslaves the citizenry. The day is worth celebrating because I remember MKO Abiola so well and how the country went in flames that year after the election was annulled,” she stated.
As we celebrate Democracy Day, it is clear that there is a collective need for improvement. The government should heed the call of citizens by ensuring transparency, accountability, and inclusive governance. By doing so, Nigeria can honor the sacrifices of those who fought for democracy and ensure a better future for all.
Mr Ajibode Lanre,a government worker said “The main Question is why are we still buying fuel at N800 when the President is paying more subsidy now than we have previously paid”. Revert to the fuel price before you became President”
Another Civil Servant Mrs Toyin Olasode focused more on the reformations. He said “Mr President, you are not reforming anything but just stealing and destroying the economy. You can’t be giving a positive reform and companies will be packing up and leaving and Nigerians purchasing power extremely going down, making more people unemployed”.
Additionally, a Secondary school teacher, Mrs Ruth Ayanleye said “Mr President said the truth for the first time, he agreed he brought hardship on the people which is a good step to reformation.
“I don’t think that those that lost their lives while fighting for democracy will be proud of how things are going in Nigeria of today, we need to do more to convince our children that their death is not in vain especially chief MKO Abiola who promised Nigerians good life”, she said.
Commenting on the speech, a retired Principal, Mr Adesoji Samuel, directing his words to the president said, “President Tinubu, destruction is not the same as reforms. Reforms don’t shut down businesses, it builds them. Companies are shutting down daily & he’s talking about reforms. Check OBJ’s 1999-2007 to see what reforms looks like. The businesses shutting down now were built then”.
Reports by Adeola Oladele and Adeleke Maria for IbadanCity ANNOUNCER
