Honouring Nigeria’s Democratic Heroes and the Ongoing Struggle for Good Governance

Abuja, Nigeria – 12 June 2025

Celebrating Democracy: A Tribute to Leadership and Legacy

As Nigerians across the country commemorate June 12 Democracy Day, the International Human Rights Commission (IHRC) in Nigeria has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his unwavering commitment to democratic ideals, social justice, and good governance. President Tinubu is described by IHRC as a “symbol of resilience and continuity” in Nigeria’s democratic journey.

Official Acknowledgement and Historical Reflection

This message was conveyed in an official letter to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, signed by Ambassador (Dr.) Duru Hezekiah, Country Head of IHRC Nigeria.
The letter praised President Tinubu’s role in the pro-democracy struggle of the 1990s and his advocacy for civil liberties during one of Nigeria’s most turbulent eras.

“Today, we remember June 12 not just as a date in our history but as a testament to the Nigerian people’s will to determine their future. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s sacrifices, dating back to the dark days of military rule, remain etched in the democratic fabric of our nation.”
– Official IHRC Statement

President Tinubu’s Enduring Legacy

President Tinubu—a former Senator and Governor of Lagos State—was a prominent member of the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), the movement that resisted military rule after the annulment of the 1993 presidential election, widely believed to have been won by Chief M.K.O. Abiola.
IHRC praised Tinubu’s legacy of defending electoral integrity and democratic values, even during periods of exile, at great personal risk.

Recognising Progress and Charting the Future

IHRC further acknowledged President Tinubu’s strides in governance since taking office in May 2023, with a focus on:

• Economic reform
• Youth empowerment
• Institutional accountability

“While the challenges before the nation remain considerable—ranging from insecurity to economic disparity—President Tinubu’s political courage and reform-driven agenda are commendable. As a human rights institution, we urge his administration to continue advancing policies that reflect equity, inclusion, and justice for all Nigerians.”
– IHRC Nigeria

June 12: A Symbol of Democratic Aspirations

June 12, officially Nigeria’s Democracy Day since 2018, commemorates the annulled 1993 election, widely recognised as the freest and fairest in Nigeria’s history.
The day honours the memory of Chief M.K.O. Abiola and all Nigerians who fought for the restoration of democratic rule.

A Call to All Stakeholders

IHRC calls on:

• Government officials
• Civil society groups
• Traditional leaders
• All citizens

to use the occasion of June 12 to recommit to the founding principles of democracy: accountability, freedom, and respect for human rights.

“Let June 12 not only be a day of remembrance, but a day of recommitment. The spirit of that election must live on in how we govern, how we protect human rights, and how we build the Nigeria we all dream of.”
– IHRC Nigeria

Issued by:
Fidelis Onakpoma
Head Media and Strategic Communications IHRC Nigeria

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The International Human Rights Commission (IHRC), has felicitated with Nigerians on this year’s Democracy Day today June 12, stressing that countries with democratic freedoms are more properous, peaceful, stable, and their citizens can enjoy their fundamental rights.

The Ambassador at Large and Head of Diplomatic Mission of the International Human Rights Commission to Nigeria, H.E. Ambassador Dr. Duru Hezekiah, in a goodwill message through his Head of Media and Strategic Communications, Mr. Fidelis Onakpoma in Abuja, said Nigerians should embrace this year’s democracy day with solidarity to building open, responsive, and accountable institutions and processes ensuring that all have the opportunity to participate and have a voice in how they will be governed.

He stated that democratic governance and human rights are critical components of sustainable development and lasting peace, urging President Tinubu to integrate democracy and the rule of law focusing on strengthening and promoting human rights, access to justice, accountable and transparent governance that serve the needs and preferences of the public.

“We have provided critical support to some countries, this includes strengthening democratic and institutional resilience in Chad Republic, Sierra Leone, Ukraine, and other African and European Countries. Inspired by this reality, we will continue to work for democracy. We will continue to serve as a community, bringing together governments, corporations, and civil society organizations that are committed to democratic principles”.

“As we mark this year’s Democracy Day, it is important that we pay tribute to all those who risked their lives in the struggle to end military dictatorship and enthrone democracy in the country. They are the heroes of our democracy, and it is my prayer that their labor of sacrifice shall not be in vain”.

“I pray that God will continue to bless our beloved country, as we continue to march forward in our Democratic journey.”

Signed

Fidelis Onakpoma,
Head of Media and Strategic Communications, IHRC Nigeria.
NGA. 12.06.2023

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