A human rights organisation the Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR), has called on governments at all levels, security agencies, and citizens to demonstrate genuine commitment to democratic principles and values.
The National Legal Adviser of the group, Henry Ekine, made the call in Port Harcourt while marking Nigeria’s June 12 Democracy Day celebration.
Ekine stressed the need for the institutionalisation of democratic ideals and the internalisation of democratic culture across the country.
According to him, executive policies and programmes must prioritise the security and welfare of the people, while legislative actions, judicial pronouncements, and citizen relations should reflect the principles of the rule of law, separation of powers, and respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms.
He further emphasised the importance of free and fair elections, the independence of the judiciary, strong political parties with internal democracy, and a credible electoral system devoid of violence and unnecessary litigations.
Reflecting on the significance of June 12, Ekine recalled that on June 12, 1993, Nigerians participated in what is widely regarded as one of the freest and fairest elections in the country’s history. However, the election was annulled, a development he described as a major setback to Nigeria’s democratic evolution.
According to him, the annulment sparked widespread protests and sustained agitation by Nigerians, many of whom faced imprisonment or were forced into exile in their struggle to reclaim the people’s mandate.
He described June 12 as a symbol of resistance against oppression and a defining moment in the country’s democratic journey, representing the collective demand for sovereignty, justice, and accountable governance.
Ekine cautioned against reducing the day to mere ceremonial activities, noting that June 12 should not be seen as a routine public holiday marked by official celebrations, but as a reminder of the sacrifices made by Nigerians in the fight for democracy.
He also warned against attempts to distort the historical significance of the day, urging the government to preserve its true essence and ensure that future generations understand its importance.
The CDHR official highlighted the critical role played by civil society organisations, activists, and other stakeholders in sustaining the pro-democracy movement, noting that their contributions were instrumental in ending authoritarian rule and establishing democratic governance.
He added that the current democratic dispensation in Nigeria was achieved through the resilience and sacrifices of the people, stressing that their role in consolidating democracy must not be undermined.
Ekine called on the government to avoid politicising June 12 and instead focus on preserving its legacy as a symbol of the people’s struggle for freedom and justice.
