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Nigeria's June 12 Democracy Day - Promises and Protests

Nigeria celebrates Democracy Day on June 12. This day was originally celebrated on March 29 but was changed by President Muhammadu Buhari, in commemoration of the June 12,1993 general election that was annulled by military leader Ibrahim Babangida. That election was won by M.K.O. Abiola who was imprisoned and died under suspicious circumstances on the day he was due to be released (July 7, 1998).

While Buhari committed to "upholding and defending Nigeria's corporate existence", insecurity has seen the resurgence of attacks by militant groups Boko Haram and splinter group ISWAP as well as a rise in attacks by bandits on villages, leading to hundreds of people losing their lives or being displaced. The economy has also suffered several setbacks and with the Covid-19 pandemic, saw a sharp decline in oil revenue as world demand decreased. Petrol and food price hikes sparked nationwide protests. Nigeria was also brought to a standstill by Special Anti-Robbery Squad (#EndSARS) protests that saw authorities use live ammunition, killing several unarmed protesters. Nigeria has also seen corruption on the increase and government efforts to curtail it seem ineffective in stemming the tide. In his Democracy Day speech, Buhari vowed that he would "do all within his power to constitutionally ensure that the security and welfare of all citizens remain the primary purpose of government". Largely peaceful protests against corruption, insecurity and Buhari's administration were held in some States with authorities condemned for attempts at supressing protesters.

Dickson Adama, Bola Ojuola/Daily Trust

Nigeria Democracy Day protest in Ogun State.

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