ADDRESS BY HIS EXCELLENCY, SENATOR ADEMOLA JACKSON NURUDEEN ADELEKE, EXECUTIVE GOVERNOR OF OSUN STATE AT THE JUNE 12 DEMOCRACY DAY CELEBRATION, HELD ON FRIDAY, JUNE 12, 2026, AT ADOLAK EVENT CENTRE, OSOGBO

Protocols

My dear people of Osun State,

It is with profound gratitude to Almighty God and a deep sense of responsibility that I address you today as we commemorate Democracy Day, June 12, a date that occupies a unique and sacred place in the political history of our nation.

Today, we join millions of Nigerians across the country and around the world in celebrating a defining chapter in our democratic journey. We celebrate the resilience of our people, the strength of our institutions and the enduring triumph of democracy. 

The significance of this day is rooted in the historic presidential election conducted on June 12, 1993. That election, won by the late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (M.K.O.) Abiola, is widely regarded as the freest, fairest and most credible election in Nigeria's history. Nigerians, irrespective of ethnicity, religion or political affiliation, voted overwhelmingly in a remarkable demonstration of national unity and democratic maturity.

However, the annulment of that election by the military government on June 23, 1993 plunged our nation into political uncertainty and triggered a prolonged struggle for the restoration of democratic governance. The years that followed witnessed unprecedented civic resistance, advocacy and sacrifices by countless patriots who demanded that the will of the Nigerian people be respected. As we commemorate the thirty-third anniversary of the historic June 12, 1993 election, we honour the courage and sacrifices of Chief M.K.O. Abiola, Alhaja Kudirat Abiola, Chief Anthony Enahoro, Pa Alfred Rewane, Chief Gani Fawehinmi, Chief Bola Ige, Commodore Dan Suleiman and countless other patriots whose commitment strengthened the foundations of democracy in Nigeria.

Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, this year's Democracy Day comes at a time when our nation continues to navigate complex economic and social challenges. Across the country, citizens yearn for greater opportunities, improved living conditions, enhanced security and responsive governance.

Here in Osun State, we remain unwavering in our resolve to make democracy meaningful for our people. We believe that the true measure of democracy lies not in political rhetoric but in the tangible improvement of the lives of citizens.

Our administration has continued to prioritise the welfare of workers, pensioners, women, youths, artisans, farmers, traditional rulers and vulnerable groups. We firmly believe that the true essence of democracy lies in improving the quality of life of the people and ensuring that development reaches every corner of our State.

Through our Five-Point Development Agenda, we have pursued policies and programmes aimed at building a more prosperous, equitable and sustainable Osun State. Across our communities, completed and ongoing investments in roads, schools, healthcare facilities, water infrastructure, rural development and economic empowerment initiatives are creating new opportunities and laying a solid foundation for future generations. We are therefore committed to sustain good governance.

 

Fellow citizens, the strength of democracy depends not only on elected leaders but also on active and responsible citizenship. I therefore urge all residents of Osun State to continue participating peacefully and constructively in the democratic process. 

Let us reject violence, political intolerance, misinformation and actions capable of undermining our collective progress. 

As we approach the next gubernatorial election in our dear State, I urge every resident of Osun State to eschew all forms of violence, intimidation, hate speech, provocation and any action capable of disrupting public peace. I call on all political actors to educate their supporters on the need for peaceful engagement throughout the electoral process.

Our security agencies, electoral officials and relevant stakeholders must also remain committed to ensuring a peaceful, transparent and credible electoral process. The will of the people remains the cornerstone of democracy and must always be respected. Let us therefore work together to ensure that the forthcoming election is conducted in a peaceful atmosphere that guarantees free, fair and credible outcomes, so that the genuine choice of the people of Osun State may prevail.

As we celebrate Democracy Day 2026, let us renew our faith in democracy and reaffirm our determination to build a society where every citizen can thrive, where opportunities abound, where institutions are strong and where government truly serves the people.

On this special day, I salute the resilience of Nigerians, celebrate the enduring spirit of our democracy and reaffirm our administration's commitment to people-centred governance and sustainable development. May the labours and sacrifices of our democracy heroes never be in vain. May peace, progress and prosperity continue to reign in Osun State and throughout our beloved nation.

Long live Osun State.

Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Happy Democracy Day

Thank you and God bless you all.