The Secretary to the Nigerian Government, George Akume, says democracy has come to stay in Nigeria.
This is as he affirmed the uniqueness of the June 12 as Democracy Day in the country.
Speaking on Monday to State House correspondents at the Forecourt of the State House, Presidential Villa, Abuja, after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu inspected the Guard of Honour as part of activities to mark the fifth anniversary of Democracy Day, Akume said democracy must be sustained because it guarantees fundamental human rights and enforces Rule of Law.
In his words: “June 12 represents Nigeria’s deliberate attempt to enthrone the sanctity of democracy and due process as far as elections are concerned. It also bothers on fundamental human rights, the right of people to vote freely and choose their own leaders.
“The abandonment of this principle led to unpleasant consequences by way of demonstrations when that annulment was made. It was long ago, but we give glory to God that today, we are celebrating this very important landmark in the history of our country.
“Remember, it was 2019 that President Muhammadu Buhari declared June 12 as work free day and by that tradition the present government is continuing to walk in the steps of the last administration.
“And the President is the Commander in Chief; Bola Ahmed Tinubu is regarded as one of the most critical persons in the struggle for the attainment of that mandate. And that is why we’re very happy that today he is here as the President.”
Other dignitaries at the event were Vice-President Kashim Shettima, immediate past President of the Senate, Dr Ahmad Lawan and the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila.
Former vice-president to the winner of the June 12, 1993 presidential election, Ambassador Babagana Kingkibe, was a special feature at the event marking the significance of the June 12, 1993, presidential poll.
