JUNE 12 AT 33: THE STRUGGLE FOR DEMOCRACY MUST CONTINUE — CAIDOV
The subsequent annulment of that election represented a painful setback for the nation's democratic aspirations. Yet, the sacrifices made by Chief MKO Abiola, his wife Kudirat Abiola, pro-democracy activists, journalists, civil society groups, labour unions, students, and countless ordinary Nigerians became the foundation upon which Nigeria's current democratic dispensation was built.
As Nigeria marks Democracy Day 2026, the Centre Against Injustice and Domestic Violence (CAIDOV) notes that June 12 is more than a public holiday. It is a reminder that democracy is neither automatic nor permanent. It must be defended, strengthened, and made meaningful in the lives of ordinary citizens.
While Nigeria has enjoyed uninterrupted civilian rule since 1999, many citizens continue to struggle with economic hardship, insecurity, unemployment, poor infrastructure, and limited access to quality healthcare and education. For millions of Nigerians, the promise of democracy remains a work in progress.
The lesson of June 12 is clear: democracy cannot be measured merely by the conduct of elections. It must also be measured by justice, accountability, transparency, inclusion, and the delivery of tangible benefits to the people.
In this regard, CAIDOV calls for three urgent actions to deepen democratic governance in Nigeria:
1. Protect the Sanctity of the Vote
The integrity of elections remains the cornerstone of democracy. Electoral technologies such as BVAS and IReV must be fully protected and transparently deployed. Electoral outcomes must always reflect the genuine will of the people. The tragedy of June 12, 1993 must never be repeated in any form.
2. Strengthen Local Government Autonomy
The true dividends of democracy are delivered closest to the people. Functional primary healthcare centres, quality basic education, rural roads, water supply, sanitation, and community development depend largely on effective local governance. Full financial and administrative autonomy for Local Government Areas remains critical to grassroots development.
3. End Violence Against Women in Elections (VAW-E)
Women constitute nearly half of Nigeria's voting population, yet many continue to face intimidation, harassment, violence, and exclusion during electoral processes. A democracy that allows women to participate in fear cannot claim to be fully democratic. Protecting women in politics and elections is essential to building an inclusive society.
Speaking on the significance of the anniversary, the Executive Director of CAIDOV, Mr. Gbenga Soloki, stated:
"June 12 was not simply about an election; it was about the right of Nigerians to determine their future. Chief MKO Abiola and countless democracy advocates paid a heavy price so that future generations could enjoy freedom and representative government. We honour their sacrifice not only through remembrance, but through action. Democracy succeeds when the votes of citizens count, when institutions serve the people, when a widow receives her pension without delay, when a child can learn in a safe school, and when every Nigerian can participate in governance without fear or discrimination."
As Nigeria reflects on the sacrifices that gave birth to the current democratic order, CAIDOV urges political leaders, institutions, civil society organisations, and citizens alike to recommit themselves to the values of justice, accountability, participation, and service.
The struggle that began on June 12, 1993 is not over. Democracy is not a gift handed down by leaders. It is a responsibility shared by all citizens.
Democracy is a duty. Let us renew that duty today.
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