June 12: Tinubu reaffirms democratic ideals, unveils economic gains amid criticisms
By Uji A. Iliyasu
In a stirring address to a joint session of the National Assembly on Thursday, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu marked Nigeria’s Democracy Day with a powerful reaffirmation of democratic ideals, a resolute defence of political plurality, and an optimistic review of his administration’s economic achievements and policy reforms.
Speaking before an assembly of lawmakers, ministers, diplomats, and invited guests, President Tinubu described June 12 as “the bedrock of Nigeria’s democratic reawakening”, invoking the memories of Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola and a host of other pro-democracy icons whose sacrifices, he said, laid the foundation for the freedoms enjoyed today.
The speech, which lasted over an hour, was broad in scope, touching on history, politics, economics, governance, and national security. It was also marked by moments of deep emotional resonance, particularly during the president’s tributes to fallen heroes and his passionate appeals for national unity and institutional collaboration.
Legacy of struggle
Tinubu began by reaffirming June 12 as Nigeria’s true Democracy Day, stating that it represents not only a date but a symbol of resilience, national rebirth, and power which belongs to the people. “June 12 is not merely a day on the calendar,” he said. “It is the spirit of defiance in the face of tyranny, and the triumph of hope over despair.”
He honoured Chief MKO Abiola, the presumed winner of the annulled 1993 presidential election, describing him as “a martyr of democracy” whose vision of a just Nigeria continues to inspire reform. In an historic gesture, President Tinubu also extended posthumous national honours to numerous civil rights leaders, journalists, and political actors, among them Kudirat Abiola, Anthony Enahoro, Gani Fawehinmi, and Ken Saro-Wiwa.
Most notably, members of the Ogoni Nine, including Saro-Wiwa, were granted full presidential pardons. This move, long demanded by activists, was greeted with applause from both chambers of the legislature and signals an attempt by the president to heal old wounds and promote national reconciliation.
One-party state rejected
In what appeared to be a direct rebuttal to critics, Tinubu unequivocally rejected any notion of engineering a one-party state in Nigeria. “The idea that I harbour autocratic ambitions is a panic alarm without basis,” he said. “I have fought too long and sacrificed too much for democracy to now become its enemy.”
He recalled his solitary role as the last opposition governor in the South-West during the political sweep of 2003, using it as evidence of his deep-rooted commitment to a multi-party system. “I stood alone then because I believed in choice, in the right to differ, and in the necessity of opposition to keep power in check.”
He called for political tolerance and a culture that embraces criticism and dissent as hallmarks of a thriving democracy. “A nation grows not by silencing its citizens, but by listening to them—even when they shout.”
Parliamentary praise
The president went on to praise the National Assembly for its role in defending democracy during Nigeria’s most precarious political moments, including the defeat of the third-term agenda in 2006 and the passage of the “doctrine of necessity” during a leadership crisis in 2010. He urged a renewed partnership between the executive and legislative branches to consolidate gains and deliver meaningful development.
“Our democracy is not perfect,” Tinubu admitted. “But it is ours to build, not to destroy. Let us stand not as adversaries in chambers, but as allies for our people’s progress.”
Economic growth amid reforms
Turning to the economy, Tinubu reported a cautiously optimistic outlook. Nigeria’s GDP grew by 3.4% in 2024, with Q4 figures climbing to 4.6%, the highest quarterly growth in a decade. “This is no accident,” the president said, attributing the improvement to strategic reforms in fiscal policy, infrastructure development, and governance transparency.
Inflation, long a sore point for households, has begun to ease, with basic food commodities like rice and beans showing signs of price stability. The foreign exchange market has also shown improvement, with net foreign reserves increasing fivefold and the naira stabilising after months of volatility.
“These gains are the fruits of difficult but necessary choices,” he said. “We are rebuilding not just for today, but for the next generation.”
Credit schemes and youth empowerment
The president highlighted several citizen-focused initiatives aimed at stimulating economic participation. Over 100,000 Nigerians have already benefitted from the CREDICORP consumer credit programme, including 35,000 civil servants. Another 400,000 beneficiaries—including members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC)—are expected to benefit from the next phase launching in July.
He also announced the launch of the National Credit Guarantee Company, backed by ₦100 billion, to support small and medium enterprises and drive industrialisation.
“Young people are not just our future—they are our present,” Tinubu declared. He spotlighted investments in youth empowerment through education, digital skills training, and the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND).
Infrastructure and digital transformation
The president outlined major infrastructure investments, including roads, rail, ports, and power—all targeted at revitalising Nigeria’s industrial backbone. He also announced the launch of a national fibre optic project designed to expand internet access and bridge the digital divide.
“Digital infrastructure is no longer a luxury—it is the highway of the 21st century economy,” Tinubu said.
In line with these efforts, digital tools are being deployed across government agencies to improve performance monitoring, reduce waste, and promote accountability.
Tax reform and fiscal transparency
Among the legislative highlights, Tinubu announced that a comprehensive tax reform package is awaiting presidential assent. The reforms aim to reduce burdens on businesses and stimulate growth. Additionally, the Office of the Tax Ombudsman has been established to ensure transparency and protect the rights of taxpayers.
“This is a government that listens, learns, and corrects,” he said, noting that responsive governance must be measured by the quality of life it delivers.
Security and defence
Security, the president acknowledged, remains a national concern. However, he stated that improved inter-agency cooperation, technology deployment, and strategic operations have pushed back criminals and terrorists in several regions.
He salute the Armed Forces and security personnel for their continued sacrifice and urged Nigerians to support them in every possible way. “Their fight is our fight, and their victory will be our peace.”
Engaging the diaspora and promoting patriotism
In a final nod to Nigeria’s global citizens, Tinubu announced initiatives such as the Diaspora Bond and non-resident Bank Verification Number (BVN) scheme to foster greater engagement from Nigerians abroad.
Capping his address, Tinubu invoked the “Nigeria First” principle, which he said prioritises self-sufficiency, inclusive economic growth, and the rekindling of national pride.
“Let us put Nigeria first—not just in words, but in deed,” he urged. “Let us walk in the shoes of those who gave their lives for democracy, and make this republic worthy of their memory.”
Voices from oppositions
Former Governor of Bayelsa State, Dickson sharply rebuked Tinubu for failing to condemn the escalating political crisis in Rivers State. He accused the president’s speech of ignoring what he termed a “creeping military‑style suppression of democracy,” lamenting that the National Assembly hastily legitimised a federal overreach that trampled constitutional norms. Dickson warned that this silence on Rivers betrayed democratic ideals and mocked the very spirit of June 12 .
Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, described Nigeria’s democracy as being “in recession” under Tinubu’s leadership. He criticised the administration’s record, pointing to surging corruption, insecurity, hunger, impunity, and “governing by remote.” He urged the President to be more present on the ground in Nigeria rather than making frequent overseas trips, insisting that confronting real issues in the country is essential to restoring democratic vitality .
Former Minister of Transportation and Rivers State governor, Rotimi Amaechi, a chieftain of APC, also broke ranks. Speaking to the BBC, he criticised the administration for deepening economic hardship, claiming “people are dying. People are starving. I myself am feeling the effects of hunger.” Amaechi announced his intent to join a coalition to challenge Tinubu in 2027, accusing the current government of “weaponising poverty”.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar said there seems to be concerted efforts to erode the sacrifices made to achieve democracy in Nigeria. Atiku said all eyes were turned to Nigeria for hope following the move to secure democracy for the nation years ago.
Atiku’s assertion that “as long as oppression thrives, June 12 lives on” highlights the enduring struggle for true democracy in Nigeria. He implies that the spirit of June 12 remains relevant because injustice, inequality, and political suppression persist, undermining the democratic ideals the day is meant to commemorate and uphold.
Former Lagos State governor and Minister of Works and Housing, Babatunde Fashola, has emphasised the critical importance of the rule of law in Nigeria’s democratic evolution, declaring that the late MKO Abiola would have emerged president if due process had been respected during the June 12, 1993 presidential election.
“If the rule of law had prevailed, there would have been no crisis on June 12,” Fashola stated. “MKO would have been president, and perhaps all of his promises about a farewell to poverty would have happened.”
He described the annulment of the 1993 election as a grave breach of democratic principles and a missed opportunity in Nigeria’s history.
As lawmakers rose in a standing ovation, the significance of the moment was not lost on observers. On the 31st anniversary of June 12, Nigeria’s democracy stands at a crossroads, but if Tinubu’s address is any indication, the path ahead, though steep, may yet be hopeful.