Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has congratulated Nigerians on the occasion of this year’s Democracy Day, describing 26 years of uninterrupted democratic governance as a significant milestone in the country’s political history.
In a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media, Mr. Yinka Oyebode, Governor Oyebanji said Nigeria’s consistent democratic practice since 1999 has earned the country respect in the international community.
The Governor commended the sacrifices of democratic icons, particularly President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his contributions to the struggle for the restoration of civil rule, following the annulled June 12, 1993 presidential election widely believed to have been won by the late Chief Moshood Abiola.
He said President Tinubu, who played a leading role in the pro-democracy movement, has now been divinely entrusted with the leadership of the country, urging Nigerians to rally behind the President’s Renewed Hope agenda aimed at repositioning the country.
Governor Oyebanji also paid glowing tributes to the late Chief Abiola and other heroes of democracy, stressing that their sacrifices must never be forgotten.
He described June 12 as a defining moment in the nation’s democratic journey, marking a new phase of political awareness and national unity.
“Twenty-six years of unbroken democratic rule is no small feat. It shows that Nigerians value democracy and are committed to preserving it, despite the challenges,” Oyebanji stated.
“It is remarkable that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, one of the foremost champions of democracy during the military era, is now leading the country. This is a clear sign of divine providence.
“I call on all Nigerians to support Mr. President and remain committed to building a prosperous and united nation. Democracy was hard-won—secured with sweat, sacrifice, and the blood of our heroes. We must all play our part in protecting it,” the Governor added.