Yesterday, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu gave due recognition to heroes of Nigerian democracy.
He hosted them at a state banquet after paying them tributes in his Democracy Day broadcast.
The President reviewed a full military parade to hallmark the day at the iconic Eagle Square in Abuja.
He led eminent Nigerians to the event, which also commemorated the country’s 25th Democracy Day anniversary.
Former President Muhammadu Buhari declared June 12 Democracy Day to commemorate the 1993 presidential election won by business mogul Moshood Abiola, who was denied the fruit of his victory by the then military government of Gen. Ibrahim Babangida.
Those President Tinubu named in his broadcast are Chief Anthony Enahoro, Chief Abraham Adesanya, Commodore Dan Suleiman, Chief Arthur Nwankwo, Chief Chukwuemeka Ezeife, Admiral Ndubuisi Kanu, Chief Frank Kokori, Chief Bola Ige, Chief Adekunle Ajasin, Chief Ganiyu Dawodu, Chief Ayo Fasanmi, Chief Gani Fawehinmi, Chief Olabiyi Durojaiye, Dr. Beko Ransome-Kuti, Chima Ubani, and others who have transited to the higher realm.
He recognised the sacrifices of General Alani Akinrinade, Prof. Bolaji Akinyemi, Prof. Wole Soyinka, Chief Ralph Obioha and Chief Cornelius Adebayo, saying for at least six years, they bore the pains and difficulties of life in exile.
The President said while the exiled pro-democracy activists kept the fire burning, their comrades at home sustained the pressure on the military brass hats.
Among the latter, he said, are Dr Olisa Agbakoba, Femi Falana, Abdul Oroh, Senator Shehu Sani, Governor Uba Sani, Chief Olu Falae, and other National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) leaders such as Chief Ayo Adebanjo and Chief Ayo Opadokun.
“The sacrifices they made, and the precious gift brought about by their selfless devotion can never be repaid. Neither shall it be forgotten,” President Tinubu said.
