By Pan Afric Reporters National Assembly, Abuja | June 12, 2025
In a rousing address to a joint session of the National Assembly marking Democracy Day 2025, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to democratic governance, celebrated Nigeria’s democratic journey, and posthumously honoured several heroes of the June 12 struggle — including a full pardon for the late environmental activist Ken Saro-Wiwa and members of the Ogoni.
“Our nation is not perfect, but it is strong,” the President declared before lawmakers in a speech laced with historical reflection, political reassurance, and a roadmap for national development.
Tinubu Dispels “One-Party State” Concerns
Responding to growing concerns of opposition suppression, President Tinubu firmly debunked fears of an emerging one-party system, stating, “I would be the last person to advocate such a scheme. A one-party state is not in the offing. Nor should it ever be.”
He cited his own resistance against political domination in 2003, when he stood as the lone opposition governor in the South-West. Tinubu also took a dig at opposition parties grappling with defections, saying, “Try your best to put your house in order. I will not help you do so. It is, indeed, a pleasure to witness you in such disarray.”
Honours for Democracy Heroes
The high point of the address came as the President announced an array of national honours for over 70 prominent Nigerians, including civil rights activists, journalists, politicians, and military officers who paid the ultimate price for democracy.
Posthumous honours were conferred on:
- Kudirat Abiola – CFR
- Shehu Musa Yar’Adua – GCFR
- Ken Saro-Wiwa and the Ogoni Nine – CON & OON
- Prof. Humphrey Nwosu, Dr. Beko Ransome-Kuti, Pa Alfred Rewane, Chima Ubani, and others.
In a symbolic act of reconciliation, Tinubu announced a full presidential pardon for Saro-Wiwa and his fellow Ogoni activists, describing them as “national heroes.”
Living awardees included Prof. Wole Soyinka (GCON), Bishop Matthew Kukah (CON), Senator Shehu Sani (CON), Femi Falana, SAN (CON), and veteran journalist Uncle Sam Amuka Pemu (CON), who marks his 90th birthday tomorrow.
Economic Progress and Reforms
Tinubu highlighted key economic gains achieved since his administration began:
- GDP growth of 3.4% in 2024, with Q4 reaching 4.6% — the highest in a decade.
- Inflation easing, food prices stabilising.
- Foreign reserves up fivefold, and the naira stabilising.
- 100,000 Nigerians benefiting from consumer credit.
- 400,000 youth to benefit from a new credit initiative in July.
He also emphasized his administration’s commitment to fiscal reforms, infrastructure, job creation, digital connectivity, and food sovereignty, noting the establishment of the National Credit Guarantee Company with ₦100 billion in capital.
Security, Civil Liberties, and Governance
The President lauded the Armed Forces for improved national security and reiterated his administration’s zero tolerance for oppression, vowing to defend freedom of speech—even against himself.
“Call me names, call me whatever you will, and I will still call upon democracy to defend your right to do so,” Tinubu said, adding that repression leads not to harmony, but to chaos.
A National Call to Unity
Closing his address with a call for bipartisan cooperation, President Tinubu urged legislators to pass innovative laws that support industrialization, improve food security, and expand civil liberties.
“Let us rededicate ourselves to the ideals of June 12: freedom, transparent and accountable government, social justice, active citizen participation, and a just society where no one is oppressed,” he concluded.
As Nigeria marks 26 years of uninterrupted democratic governance, Tinubu’s Democracy Day address stands as both a reaffirmation of democratic values and a challenge to lawmakers, citizens, and institutions to do more in pursuit of the Nigerian dream.
