On this significant occasion of June 12; Democracy Day, I join millions of our compatriots at home and in the diaspora to solemnly and proudly commemorate the enduring spirit of democracy in our great country, Nigeria.
Today is not just a date on the calendar; it is a powerful symbol of the resilience, sacrifice, and unyielding determination of countless Nigerians who stood firm, faced bullets with ballots in mind, and challenged the dark days of military rule in pursuit of a just, free, and truly representative nation.
Let me begin by congratulating and appreciating our President, His Excellency, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, a foremost hero of democracy, for his lifelong patriotism and relentless advocacy for democratic governance.
From the trenches of the pro-democracy struggle, the exile years, and the formation of enduring democratic institutions, to this very moment where he stands at the helm of our nation’s leadership, President Tinubu has demonstrated exceptional courage, vision, and unwavering belief in Nigeria.
Today, providence has placed him in the position to adjudicate over the same democracy he once fought to secure; a profound testimony to the faithfulness of God and the triumph of the Nigerian spirit.
We must also acknowledge and appreciate the bold and often difficult decisions President Tinubu has made since assuming office.
These decisions, though sometimes painful, are born out of a deep commitment to laying the groundwork for long-term economic growth, restoring national confidence, and ensuring that the dividends of democracy are not mere slogans but tangible realities for all Nigerians.
Under his leadership, wealth has been equitably distributed to states and local governments, enabling these tiers of government to initiate and sustain development closer to the grassroots, irrespective of age, tribe, religion, class, status, location or creed.
As we celebrate today, I salute the courage of all Nigerians; past and present, who fought and continue to defend our democracy. Your sacrifices shall never be in vain.
But democracy, as noble as it is, must be defended not only at the ballot box but in our daily conduct, civic responsibilities, and collective discipline. I, therefore, call on every Nigerian to play their part in strengthening our democracy by being law-abiding, informed, and engaged citizens.
We must rise above divisiveness and embrace patriotism in our words and actions. Government is playing its part under President Tinubu; it is incumbent upon the people to do the same for democracy to thrive.
Democracy is more than freedom to vote; it is about good governance, transparency, accountability, and impactful development.
This is why I want to send a special message to the good people of Osun State to remain hopeful and rest assured that better days lie ahead.
Our party, the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State, is committed to restoring genuine governance where taxpayers’ money is judiciously allocated, appropriated, and spent on critical infrastructure and the real needs of our people.
We will not allow the resources of Osun State to be wasted on frivolous and vanity projects that offer no measurable impact or meaningful benefit to the common man. Rather, our focus will be on projects and programs that empower communities, uplift the youth and women, improve healthcare and education, enhance rural development, and stimulate economic productivity.
This is the true essence of the democracy we celebrate today, and this is the promise the Osun APC renews to the people.
In conclusion, June 12 is not just a day to look back in remembrance, but a day to look forward with renewed hope and responsibility.
Let us all, as Nigerians, rise to the challenge of deepening our democracy, supporting good governance, and working collectively for the greatness of our nation.
Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Long live our democracy.
Happy Democracy Day.
*_Senator Babajide Omoworare CON_*
