…wants lessons drawn from MKO Abiola

As Nigeria commemorates Democracy Day, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and CEO of UBACLE Group, Mr. Uba Michael, has called for the deepening of democratic values through the conduct of genuinely free, fair, and credible elections across the country.

In a statement released on Wednesday, Mr. Michael said the occasion of June 12 should serve not only as a moment of celebration but also as a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by pro-democracy heroes, particularly the late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola.

“June 12 is a symbol of the people’s will, and it represents the highest cost paid for democracy in our country,” Michael said. “To truly honor the legacy of MKO Abiola, we must go beyond symbolic gestures and ensure that elections at all levels reflect the genuine choices of the Nigerian people.”

He urged political leaders, institutions, and citizens alike to recommit to the ideals of transparency, justice, and accountability in governance, emphasizing that democracy must work for everyone—not just the political elite.

“True democracy cannot exist without integrity in our electoral process. We must build a system where every Nigerian, regardless of background, believes their vote counts and their voice matters.”

Mr. Michael also called on young Nigerians not to lose faith in the nation’s democratic project, stating that real change requires sustained participation and vigilance.

“Our democracy is still evolving. It is our collective responsibility to safeguard it, to learn from the past, and to build a future rooted in equity and inclusion,” he added.

June 12 marks the anniversary of the annulled 1993 presidential election, widely considered Nigeria’s freest and fairest, which was presumed to have been won by MKO Abiola. The date was officially designated as Democracy Day in 2018 to recognize the democratic struggles of the past.

As the nation reflects on its democratic journey, voices like Uba Michael’s underscore the continuing demand for electoral reforms and genuine democratic governance in Africa’s most populous nation.