Governor Akinwunmi Ambode of Lagos State on Friday pledged his commitment to expanding the frontiers of democratic governance, social justice and freedom of the people.
Ambode made the pledge at a programme to mark the 22nd anniversary of the annulled June 12, 1993 presidential election, organised by the State’s Political and Legislative Powers Bureau in collaboration with June 12 Coalition.
The programme was entitled ‘Sustainability of Democratic Values, the Nigerian Experience’.
He said that June 12 events symbolised the patriotic and nationalistic spirit of Nigerians as well as the off-shoot of democratic governance in the country.
”June 12 was the day Nigerians went out en masse to liberate themselves, to take charge of their destinies and reclaim their rights and privileges as a people.
”That day fired up the hope in the hearts of Nigerians through the candidature of an unrepentant philanthropist – Chief Moshood Abiola.
”The outcome of this year’s election has proven that the lessons of June 12, 1993 have been fruitful and we shall continue to nurture and sustain democratic governance that will enhance and empower the wellbeing of the people.
”We owe it as a duty to immortalise the memories of our fallen compatriots to deepen our democracy and to sustain us as a people of destiny, ” he said.
Prof. Akin Oyebode, chairman of the occasion, described June 12 as the day the will and power of Nigerians was consecrated.
Oyebode lamented that the ideals of June 12 had been perceived to be South-West affairs, saying that it is a disservice to Nigerians.
”June 12 is supposed to be made Democracy Day rather that May 29. We need to demonstrate our commitments to the ideals of June 12 by declaring that day a national holiday.
”Our victory cannot be complete unless we declare June 12 a National Democracy Day to recognise the contributions that day made to the history of this country, ” he said.
Also speaking, human rights lawyer, Mr Femi Falana (SAN), urged governments at all levels to work toward achieving a total democratic course.
He appealed to all state governments to work in harmony to eradicate poverty and find a lasting solution to the problems of the country.
Falana also urged the Federal government to probe and punish those who had misappropriated the wealth of the country to serve as deterrent.
