The Edo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has congratulated Nigerians on the occasion of Democracy Day, paying glowing tribute to the heroes of the June 12 struggle and reaffirming its commitment to democratic governance and development.
In a statement issued on Friday by the State Publicity Secretary of the party, Barrister Peter Uwadiae-Igbinigie, the APC described June 12 as a defining moment in Nigeria’s history and a symbol of the triumph of the people’s will over authoritarian rule.
The party noted that the June 12, 1993 presidential election, widely regarded as the freest and fairest in the country’s history, demonstrated the determination of Nigerians to rise above ethnic, religious and regional divisions in pursuit of national unity and democratic governance.
According to the APC, the annulment of the election sparked a fierce struggle for the restoration of democracy, with many Nigerians making enormous sacrifices, including the loss of lives and prolonged incarceration.
The party said the decision of the APC-led Federal Government to officially recognise June 12 as Democracy Day was a historic move aimed at honouring the sacrifices of pro-democracy activists and preserving the sanctity of the ballot box.
“As we celebrate today, we must remember those who paid the ultimate price to ensure that democracy survived in Nigeria. Their sacrifices remain a beacon of hope and a reminder of the enduring values of justice, equity and freedom,” the statement said.
The party stressed that the true essence of democracy lies in its ability to improve the lives of citizens through economic growth, security, quality education, healthcare delivery and infrastructural development.
The APC further urged Edo residents to remain peaceful, vigilant and actively involved in the democratic process, especially as the state approaches another critical political season.
It maintained that meaningful progress can only be achieved when citizens and leaders work together towards a common vision of prosperity and development.
The party also commended Nigerians, particularly Edo people, for their resilience and patriotism despite the nation’s challenges, expressing optimism that the country would continue to advance on the path of democracy and sustainable development.
Reaffirming its commitment to democratic ideals, the Edo APC said it would continue to support initiatives aimed at promoting freedom, justice and progress for all citizens.
“Though our democratic journey has faced its share of turbulence, our faith in a united, prosperous and democratic nation must never waver,” the party stated. “Together, we shall continue to build an Edo State and a Nigeria where freedom thrives, justice reigns and progress is a reality for all.”
