State leaders honour June 12 heroes, urge citizens to defend democracy, promote national unity and support good governance.
Governors across Nigeria have called on citizens to embrace unity, peace, patriotism and democratic ideals as the nation marks the 2026 Democracy Day anniversary.
In separate messages, the governors described June 12 as a symbol of courage, freedom and the sacrifices made by pro-democracy heroes, including Chief MKO Abiola and Alhaja Kudirat Abiola.
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu said Democracy Day celebrates the resilience of Nigerians who fought to protect democratic governance, while Kebbi State Governor Nasir Idris urged citizens to remain patient, law-abiding and committed to national development.
Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara described democracy as Nigeria’s strongest path to unity and prosperity, while Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani warned against anti-democratic tendencies and called for national interest to take precedence over politics ahead of the 2027 elections.
Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma and his Abia State counterpart, Alex Otti, also encouraged Nigerians to strengthen democratic institutions, promote accountability and actively participate in governance.
The governors collectively urged citizens to uphold the ideals of June 12 through peace, tolerance and civic responsibility, stressing that democracy remains the best platform for national growth and inclusion.
Meanwhile, President Bola Tinubu reaffirmed his commitment to democratic governance, praising Nigeria’s 27 years of uninterrupted civilian rule and urging citizens to continue defending the country’s democratic institutions.