The African Democratic Congress (ADC) described June 12 as one of the most significant dates in Nigeria’s political history and democratic journey.
In a Democracy Day statement issued on Thursday in Abuja, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, said June 12 symbolizes Nigerians’ enduring democratic aspirations.
He stated that the date reflects the belief that citizens’ voices matter, their votes count, and governments derive legitimacy from the people.
“June 12 remains one of the most important dates in our nation’s political history and a reminder that government derives legitimacy from the governed,” he said.
Abdullahi emphasized that Democracy Day should be an occasion not only to celebrate past struggles but also to assess Nigeria’s democratic progress.
According to him, democracy should be measured not by the number of years under civilian rule but by improvements in citizens’ welfare, freedoms, and opportunities.
The ADC spokesman highlighted that ongoing insecurity, economic hardship, and declining public confidence in institutions continue to challenge Nigeria’s democratic development.
He noted that rising costs of food, transportation, healthcare, housing, and education have placed immense pressure on households and businesses.
“Our young people should be driving national growth and renewal, but many are struggling to find opportunities and hope within the country,” he said.
He added that the party rejects the idea that insecurity, poverty, and economic hardship are inevitable, insisting that effective governance can reverse these trends.
“We believe security must be intelligence-led, technology-enabled, community-informed, and locally responsive if Nigeria is to achieve lasting peace,” he stated.
Abdullahi said the ADC’s vision includes economic reforms aimed at reducing the cost of living, supporting businesses, and improving Nigerians’ quality of life.
He also mentioned that the party will promote transparency, accountability, food security, and institutional reforms to restore public confidence in democratic governance.
“We believe government must be judged by results, not speeches, excuses, or headlines, but by the wellbeing of Nigerians,” he concluded.
The party congratulated Nigerians on Democracy Day and urged citizens to remain committed to building a more secure, prosperous, and accountable democratic society.
