The children of the late Chief Moshood Abiola, acclaimed winner of the annulled June 12, 1993 presidential election, have appealed to President Bola Tinubu to enact legislation permanently designating June 12 as Nigeria’s Democracy Day. They also called on the Ogun State government to transform the Abiola family house into a national monument to preserve their father’s legacy.
Speaking to journalists during the annual prayer for their father at the Abiola family house in Oja Agbo, Abeokuta, Ameen Abiola expressed gratitude for past honors, including the conferment of the Grand Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (GCFR) on their father by former President Muhammadu Buhari. However, he emphasized the need for a law to ensure June 12 remains Democracy Day, safeguarding it from future abolition.
“We thank the Federal Government for honoring our father, who paid the supreme sacrifice for the democracy we enjoy today,” Ameen said. “But we passionately appeal for a bill to permanently make June 12 Democracy Day, so future generations cannot erase it. Some youths, based on what we see on social media, don’t understand the invaluable roles our father played.”
Ameen noted that President Tinubu, who worked closely with Abiola during the struggle for democracy, is uniquely positioned to champion this cause. “He understood what our father stood for and has supported our family. We urge him to help us with this bill,” he added.
Another son, Abdulrahman Abiola, called on the Ogun State government to upgrade the Abiola family house in Gbagura, Abeokuta, into a national monument. “Given his contributions to Nigeria’s democratic development, we believe the Abiola house should be immortalized as a national monument,” he said.
Representing Governor Dapo Abiodun, Deputy Governor Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele reaffirmed the state’s commitment to democratic principles and good governance. She described Abiola as a legendary figure whose role in ending military rule remains a source of pride in Nigeria’s history.
The appeals underscore ongoing efforts to preserve Abiola’s legacy and the historical significance of June 12 in Nigeria’s democratic journey.
