Prominent Nigerians lamented the unfulfilled democratic promises of the country at the June 12 National Dialogue, marking thirty years since the pivotal 1993 presidential election. Prof. Pat Utomi and Dr. Wahab Shittu urged citizens to continue fighting for genuine reforms while emphasizing the need for a democratic culture. The event also highlighted the necessity for naming the INEC headquarters after MKO Abiola and the release of his family’s entitlements.
On June 12, 2023, prominent Nigerians gathered to voice concerns regarding the nation’s democratic progression, nearly thirty years after the watershed presidential election of 1993. The occasion to discuss these pressing issues came at the annual June 12 National Dialogue, hosted by the Eminent Patriots of Nigeria in Lagos. The dialogue was poignantly themed: “Democracy without a Democratic Constitution: Which Way for Nigeria?”
During the event, political economist Prof. Pat Utomi expressed his disappointment, saying, despite hopes for Nigeria to prosper, the reality feels bleak. “When we fought for democracy, we hoped that by now Nigeria would rank among the world’s top 10 nations. But look at where we are today. Is this the democracy some died for?” Utomi questioned, reflecting on the struggles of those who fought for the nation’s democratic ideals. He urged citizens to persist in their pursuit of true democracy, stating, “If we die, we die. Nigeria will rise again.”
Dr. Wahab Shittu, a senior advocate, urged President Bola Tinubu to rename the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) headquarters in Abuja as “MKO Abiola House”. He argued that this would serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of free elections. Additionally, Shittu called upon the government to release all entitlements due to the late Chief MKO Abiola’s family, acknowledging the enduring pain stemming from the annulment of the June 12, 1993 election by former President Ibrahim Babangida. “Abiola and his family were wronged… The Federal Government should release all entitlements to correct this injustice,” he asserted.
Shittu also stressed the necessity for developing a citizen-focused constitution, criticizing the contemporary political landscape as rife with corruption and poor democratic practices. “We have ‘cash-and-carry’ democracy; democracy by anointment… Nigerians must embrace a democratic culture where they determine their future without inducements,” he insisted, emphasizing a shift towards genuine democratic engagement.
Other notable attendees of the forum included former Minister of Finance, Dr. Idika Kalu, and various members of The Patriots, who collectively examined the need for commitment to democratic principles, institutional reform, and accountability in governance. Kalu encouraged Nigerians to appreciate the current state of the nation, noting, “We must resist forces working against our national interest. United as one country, no foe can conquer Nigeria.”
In contrast, Gboyega Adejumo voiced a lack of celebratory sentiment regarding June 12, suggesting, “We are celebrating corruption,” pointing to an overwhelming sense of frustration surrounding the state of democracy. Mike Omeri added that the commemoration should serve as a call for Nigeria to function as a true federation, advocating for cooperation among its diverse regions to foster progress.
The June 12 dialogue highlighted the ongoing struggles of Nigerian citizens to realize a fulfilled democracy thirty years after the landmark election. Speakers like Prof. Utomi and Dr. Shittu called for genuine reform and recognition of past injustices, advocating for continued civic engagement and institutional accountability. As the nation grapples with its democratic identity, these discussions remind us of the critical need for a united effort towards achieving true governance for all citizens.
Original Source: punchng.com
