Each year, June 12 reminds Nigerians of a bitter betrayal, the annulment of the freest and fairest election in our nation’s history. It was on that day in 1993 that Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (M.K.O.) Abiola emerged victorious in a presidential election that transcended ethnic and religious lines, only for the military regime to shamelessly abort the people’s will. Although Nigeria now officially commemorates June 12 as Democracy Day, the question lingers: Have the wounds truly healed?
The 2025 celebration has come and gone with the usual fanfare. Speeches were made, wreaths laid, and calls for unity echoed across the country. But behind the commemorative ceremonies lies a glaring truth: the issues that led to the June 12 crisis remain disturbingly relevant. Free, fair, and credible elections are still far from being the norm in Nigeria.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), tasked with safeguarding the integrity of our democracy, continues to operate under a cloud of public skepticism. Electoral malpractice, logistical failures, and undue influence from powerful political actors erode public trust. The INEC must rise beyond token reforms and become truly independent, in structure, funding, and spirit.
Most troubling is the growing trend of election outcomes being determined by the courts rather than the ballots. While the judiciary plays a vital role in interpreting the law, it should not routinely serve as the final arbiter of who governs. When mandates are awarded in courtrooms rather than polling units, the very essence of democracy, the sovereignty of the people, is undermined.
To honour the spirit of June 12, Nigeria must go beyond remembrance. We must confront the systemic flaws that threaten our electoral process. Political interference in INEC’s operations must end. The recruitment of its top officials should be merit-based and free from executive influence. Election technology must be reliable, transparent, and consistent. Most importantly, the will of the electorate must be sacred and unassailable.
June 12 is not just a date. It is a symbol of a nation’s yearning for justice, equity, and true democratic rule. Until our elections reflect the undiluted voice of the people, the wounds of 1993 will remain open, festering beneath the surface of every flawed contest.
Nigeria owes it to Abiola, and to the millions who stood in line that day in 1993, to get it right. The time for cosmetic democracy is over. The time for credible, people-powered elections is now.
