ADDRESS BY HIS EXCELLENCY, SENATOR ADEMOLA JACKSON NURUDEEN ADELEKE, EXECUTIVE GOVERNOR OF OSUN STATE AT THE JUNE 12 DEMOCRACY DAY CELEBRATION, HELD ON FRIDAY, JUNE 12, 2026, AT ADOLAK EVENT CENTRE, OSOGBO
Protocols
My dear people of Osun State,
It is with profound gratitude to Almighty God and a deep sense of responsibility that I address you today as we commemorate Democracy Day, June 12, a date that occupies a unique and sacred place in the political history of our nation.
Today, we join millions of Nigerians across the country and around the world in celebrating a defining chapter in our democratic journey. We celebrate the resilience of our people, the strength of our institutions and the enduring triumph of democracy.
The significance of this day is rooted in the historic presidential election conducted on June 12, 1993. That election, won by the late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (M.K.O.) Abiola, is widely regarded as the freest, fairest and most credible election in Nigeria's history. Nigerians, irrespective of ethnicity, religion or political affiliation, voted overwhelmingly in a remarkable demonstration of national unity and democratic maturity.
However, the annulment of that election by the military government on June 23, 1993 plunged our nation into political uncertainty and triggered a prolonged struggle for the restoration of democratic governance. The years that followed witnessed unprecedented civic resistance, advocacy and sacrifices by countless patriots who demanded that the will of the Nigerian people be respected. As we commemorate the thirty-third anniversary of the historic June 12, 1993 election, we honour the courage and sacrifices of Chief M.K.O. Abiola, Alhaja Kudirat Abiola, Chief Anthony Enahoro, Pa Alfred Rewane, Chief Gani Fawehinmi, Chief Bola Ige, Commodore Dan Suleiman and countless other patriots whose commitment strengthened the foundations of democracy in Nigeria.
Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, this year's Democracy Day comes at a time when our nation continues to navigate complex economic and social challenges. Across the country, citizens yearn for greater opportunities, improved living conditions, enhanced security and responsive governance.
Here in Osun State, we remain unwavering in our resolve to make democracy meaningful for our people. We believe that the true measure of democracy lies not in political rhetoric but in the tangible improvement of the lives of citizens.
Our administration has continued to prioritise the welfare of workers, pensioners, women, youths, artisans, farmers, traditional rulers and vulnerable groups. We firmly believe that the true essence of democracy lies in improving the quality of life of the people and ensuring that development reaches every corner of our State.