Here’s what you need to know:
- The Promise of June 12: A free and fair election that transcended ethnic and religious divides.
- The Betrayal: The annulment of the election by the military regime.
- Mixed Feelings: Reflections on whether Nigeria has lived up to the ideals of June 12th.
- Stakeholder Perspectives: Views from political figures, activists, and everyday citizens.
The Ghost of June 12: A Nation Divided?
“On the march again!” That was the anthem of Chief M.K.O. Abiola, the Social Democratic Party (SDP) candidate, during the historic 1993 election. Nigerians from all walks of life rallied behind him, believing in his promise of a better future. But the annulment of that election turned victory into a bitter disappointment. It left many wondering if Nigeria truly values democracy.
Why June 12 Matters
Next to football, Nigerians love democracy, especially the power to choose their leaders. After years of military rule, the June 12th election was a beacon of hope. People lined up to vote, eager to have their voices heard. But their hopes were dashed when the military government tossed aside the results, proving that the path to democracy is rarely smooth.
A Twisted Path to Democracy
Instead of honoring the people’s choice, the military tried to install a puppet government. This attempt to subvert the will of the people only fueled the fire. The spirit of June 12th refused to die, becoming a rallying cry for those who believed in Abiola’s mandate. Promises of new elections and political reforms failed to quell the anger and frustration.
From Tragedy to Recognition
The struggle for democracy claimed the lives of Abiola and the head of the military coup. In 1999, Nigeria finally returned to democratic rule, but the shadow of June 12th still loomed large. Efforts were made to honor Abiola, including a posthumous award and the declaration of June 12th as Democracy Day.
Is the Dream Alive? Stakeholders Weigh In
The South-West Perspective
Femi Okurounmu, a member of NADECO, believes that the ideals of June 12th remain unfulfilled. He criticizes so-called progressives in power who have failed to ensure free and fair elections. According to Okurounmu, Nigerians are losing faith in the electoral process, feeling that their votes don’t matter.
Afenifere’s Take
Abogun Kole Omololu of Afenifere describes the June 12th election as the most credible and unifying moment in Nigeria’s history. However, he laments that many who claim to uphold the legacy of June 12th have betrayed its ideals. He singles out Bola Ahmed Tinubu as one of the few post-June 12th figures with genuine democratic credentials.
Voices from the South-South
Peter Mazi, a civil society advocate, argues that the custodians of power have largely betrayed the spirit of June 12th. He believes that the election was a protest for freedom and justice. He criticizes the current administration for suppressing the very values that June 12th stood for.
The Ijaw National Congress’s View
Ezonebi Oyakemeagbegha of the Ijaw National Congress (INC) highlights that Abiola’s victory showed that Nigerians prioritize good leadership over religion and ethnicity. However, he regrets that the impact of democracy remains elusive for most Nigerians.
June 12: More Than Just a Holiday
June 12th is more than just a public holiday; it’s a reminder of Nigeria’s ongoing struggle for genuine democracy and social justice. Until the country addresses the issues of elite domination and mass suffering, the spirit of June 12th will live on in the resistance of ordinary Nigerians.
The Biafran Perspective
Uchenna Madu, the Leader of MASSOB, views the June 12th saga as a political drama that changed Nigeria’s political history. He highlights the courage of Professor Humphrey Nwosu, who risked his life to uphold the choice of the Nigerian people.
Lessons Learned
- Nigerians will always speak up when it matters most.
- Free and fair elections are possible in Nigeria if stakeholders are willing.
- The truncation of democracy can lead to dire consequences.