June 12: Obi urges Nigerians to recreate the spirit of 1993 in 2027

Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has called on Nigerians to draw inspiration from the June 12, 1993 elections and work towards ensuring credible, transparent and citizen-led elections in 2027.

In a Democracy Day message posted on his handle X on Friday, Obi said June 12 should serve as a time for reflection on the state of Nigeria’s democracy and governance.

He urged citizens to consider whether the country’s democratic institutions live up to the ideals symbolized by the historic 1993 presidential election.

According to him, the annual June 12 celebration provides an opportunity to ask critical questions about the nation’s electoral process, governance structures and the social contract between leaders and citizens.

“Today we observe a day that should mean a lot to us as a people who cherish democratic principles.

“Every year on June 12, the conversation inevitably turns to a critical assessment of the state of the nation,” Obi said.

He questioned whether contemporary elections in Nigeria were as transparent as those conducted in 1993 and whether government institutions were actually serving the interests of the people.

The former Labor Party presidential candidate described June 12 as a powerful symbol of both reflection and aspiration.

According to him, it honors a difficult chapter in Nigeria’s history by highlighting the enduring strength of the democratic will of the people.

Obi said June 12 remains the emotional and structural foundation of Nigeria’s democratic identity, representing both the tragedy of the annulled 1993 presidential election and the ultimate triumph of citizens’ quest for democratic governance.

He said understanding the significance of June 12 requires an appreciation of its history, evolution and continued relevance in Nigeria’s democratic journey.

“A New Nigeria of true democracy is possible,” he added.