By Precious Oluwole

Ondo State Governor, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa has emphasized the need to continue to push for a better Nigeria and Ondo State in particular, where every citizen can live with dignity, where diversity is celebrated and where democracy is a beacon of hope for generations to come.

The Governor made this emphasis on Thursday during the 2025 edition of June 12 celebration, held at the Dome, Akure, the State capital.

He acknowledged the Democracy day as it reminds of indelible impacts on our shared political and democratic history. “This significant date marks the remembrance of the 1993 Presidential Election won by the late Chief MKO Abiola, GCFR, an election acclaimed as the freest and fairest in Nigeria’s electoral history. The June 12 election was not only a watershed that has had lasting impacts on our country’s democratic journey, it has strengthened our collective struggle for freedom, justice and the Rule of Law.

“Twenty-six years after the restoration of democratic rule in Nigeria, we have seen and witnessed dividends of democratic system of government and also challenges hampering the deepening of democracy in the country”.

Governor Aiyedatiwa described the theme of this year’s democracy day ” June 12: Losses And Gains In Relationship To Today’s Democratic Realities In Nigeria” as apt.

“The unfortunate interruption of democratic governance in Nigeria over the years led to a range of challenges which have accentuated the disruptions of economic growth, limitations on access to education and healthcare and constraints on civic engagement.

“However, we have witnessed several democratic gains since our return to civilian rule in May 1999. In spite of the challenges we faced, we have made notable progress in the consolidation of our democratic institutions, which has strengthened the foundation of our democracy. Citizens now enjoy greater freedom to express their opinions, assemble and constructively criticise the government without fear of arrest or harassment.

“This has fostered a culture of open debate that promote transparency and accountability. Our democratic systems have also become more robust. We now have regular elections, citizens can now participate in the selection of their leaders and hold them accountable. The Rule of Law is upheld and checks and balances are in place to forestall acts of arbitrariness and dictatorial tendencies from each of the three Arms of Government.

“This occasion of June 12 further reminds us of the importance of building on the gains and working towards a more progressive democracy that serves the interests of all Nigerians”.

The Governor highlighted some of his administration’s achievements, including; recruitment of over 2,000 teachers to address the acute shortage of teachers in public schools, both primary and secondary, recruitments in other key sectors of the public service, allocation of N633million to cover WAEC fees for students in public secondary schools and N8.5million for NABTEB for students in technical colleges, illumination of major roads through installation of solar powered streetlights, among many others.

He appreciated the people of Ondo State for the trust reposed in him to direct the affairs of the State. He also hailed the contributions and sacrifices of heroes of democracy.

Earlier in his address, the Chairman of the Occassion, Dr Tunji Abayomi, Chairman, Governing Council, Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko stated that it is the duty of Governor Aiyedatiwa to keep the spirit of democracy alive, adding that Ondo State played a crucial role in the pro-democracy movement. He emphasized that democracy must deliver real benefits to the people, and urged the governor to strengthen public trust by deepening democratic values.

In his lecture, the Majority Leader of the Senate, Senator Michael Opeyemi Bamidele described June 12 as a symbol of sacrifice, resilience, and hope for a better Nigeria.

Represented by the State Attorney General and Commissioner of Justice, Dr Olukayode Ajulo, he said that the day invites reflection on the historic 1993 presidential election, widely regarded as Nigeria’s freest and fairest, which was annulled by the military regime of General Ibrahim Babangida.

He outlined the losses of June 12, including democratic betrayal, suppression of voices, and delayed political development. However, he said the gains include 25 years of uninterrupted democracy, national recognition of Abiola, increased civic awareness, and ongoing institutional reforms.

Bamidele noted that President Bola Tinubu, a frontline figure in the June 12 struggle, has continued its legacy through ambitious reforms under the Renewed Hope Agenda, focusing on economic stability, national security, and improved governance.

In attendance were; The Deputy Governor, Dr Olayide Adelami, Speaker, Ondo State of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Olamide Oladiji, Secretary to the State Government, Dr Taiwo Fasoranti, Chief Judge of Ondo State, Justice Olusegun Ayedun, Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa, Head of Service, Mr Bayo Philips, members of Ondo State House of Assembly, traditional rulers, religious leaders, Permanent Secretaries, political leaders, labour leaders, political appointees, top government functionaries, among others.