Democracy Day: Protect Our Freedom, Back Tinubu’s Reforms for a Stronger Nigeria, APC Chairman Urges Nigerians

By Pan Afric Reporters 

The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, has called on Nigerians to safeguard the country’s hard-earned democratic freedoms and rally behind the reform agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, saying the difficult but necessary policies being implemented by the administration are designed to secure Nigeria’s long-term prosperity and stability.

The call was contained in a Democracy Day message issued by the Office of the National Chairman of the APC and signed by Abimbola Tooki, Special Adviser to the National Chairman on Media and Information Strategy, to commemorate the June 12 Democracy Day celebration.

In the statement, Professor Yilwatda described June 12 as a defining moment in Nigeria’s democratic history and a symbol of the sacrifices made by patriots who fought for justice, electoral integrity, and the right of Nigerians to freely choose their leaders.

“Democracy Day is not merely another public holiday; it is a solemn reminder of our collective struggle for freedom, representative government, and the right of every Nigerian to determine the destiny of our nation through democratic means,” he said.

According to the APC chairman, the annual observance offers an opportunity for citizens to reflect on the nation’s democratic journey, assess its progress, and recommit themselves to the principles of unity, patriotism, accountability, and good governance.

He noted that democracy has provided Nigerians with a platform for peaceful political participation, protection of fundamental rights, and increased opportunities for citizens to contribute to national development.

“Every generation has a responsibility to defend democracy. The sacrifices made by our democratic heroes should never be forgotten, nor should we allow actions capable of undermining our constitutional order,” Yilwatda stated.

He stressed that regardless of political differences or affiliations, Nigerians must work collectively to strengthen democratic institutions and preserve constitutional governance.

The APC National Chairman also urged political leaders, civil society organisations, religious bodies, youth groups, the media, and other stakeholders to promote dialogue, tolerance, peaceful engagement, and respect for the rule of law.

Speaking on the economic reforms being pursued by President Tinubu’s administration, Yilwatda appealed for patience and support from citizens, arguing that meaningful national transformation often requires difficult decisions.

“The Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is fundamentally designed to reposition Nigeria for sustainable growth, economic stability, infrastructure development, improved social welfare, expanded investment opportunities, and enhanced prosperity for future generations,” he said.

He added that ongoing reforms across key sectors are aimed at strengthening public institutions, creating jobs, improving the business environment, attracting investment, and building a more competitive economy capable of delivering long-term benefits for Nigerians.

While acknowledging the sacrifices associated with reform measures, the APC chairman maintained that history has shown that courageous leadership and sound policy choices are critical to achieving lasting national progress.

“While reforms may demand patience and sacrifice, history has consistently shown that courageous leadership and sound policy choices lay the foundation for lasting national progress,” he said.

Yilwatda further urged Nigerians to reject violence, division, misinformation, and actions capable of threatening the nation’s democratic stability, emphasizing that the best way to honour the heroes of June 12 is to preserve and strengthen the democracy they fought for.

“As we commemorate Democracy Day, let us remember that democracy flourishes only where citizens actively defend it with responsibility, patriotism, and respect for one another,” he said.

“Our greatest tribute to the heroes of June 12 is to preserve the democracy they fought for and work together to build a peaceful, prosperous, and united Nigeria for generations yet unborn.”

He wished Nigerians a peaceful and memorable Democracy Day celebration and reaffirmed the commitment of the APC to promoting democratic governance, national unity, and policies aimed at advancing the country’s development and prosperity.