By Shina Abubakar, Osogbo

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State has called for stronger democratic institutions and credible elections, urging stakeholders to deepen reforms that will sustain the legacy of late Chief Moshood Abiola and the historic June 12 struggle.

The call was made by the Secretary of the Osun APC governorship campaign sub-committee on Civil Society, Comrade Adeola Olayiwola, while addressing journalists in Osogbo during the 2026 Democracy Day commemoration on Wednesday.

Olayiwola stressed that Democracy Day should go beyond ceremonial celebrations, insisting that true democracy must be anchored on accountability, justice, transparency, and respect for the rule of law.

He urged political actors, government institutions, electoral bodies, and citizens to uphold democratic principles in order to strengthen public trust in governance and ensure that every vote truly counts.

“Democracy is not merely about elections. It is about accountability, justice, transparency, respect for the rule of law, and the protection of citizens’ rights,” he said. “The lessons of June 12 challenge us to continue strengthening our democratic institutions and ensuring that every vote counts.”

He added that sustained commitment to democratic values remains essential to building a Nigeria where elections reflect the genuine will of the people and leadership is driven by service and integrity.

“We call upon all political actors, government institutions, electoral bodies, and citizens to uphold the principles that made the June 12 election a landmark event,” he added.

Also speaking, a member of the committee, Kehinde Ayantunji, reaffirmed the APC’s commitment to democratic ideals, calling for a level playing field for all political parties ahead of future elections.

He urged security agencies, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and other election stakeholders to ensure a free, fair, and violence-free poll.

“We are pleading to all national institutions, especially security agencies, INEC, the police and all other stakeholders involved in election management, to allow a free and violence-free poll,” he said, expressing confidence that the party would secure victory in the forthcoming election.