The Social Democratic Party (SDP) has declared that the dreams and promises of the historic June 12, 1993 election remain unrealised, insisting that millions of Nigerians are still trapped in poverty, insecurity, unemployment and economic hardship 33 years after the landmark poll.
In a Democracy Day statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Araba Rufus Aiyenigba, the party said the late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola won the hearts of Nigerians because he represented hope, justice and good governance at a critical time in the nation’s history.
The SDP recalled that Nigerians from every region of the country voted massively for MKO Abiola in the June 12, 1993 presidential election, widely regarded as the freest and fairest election ever conducted in Nigeria.
According to the party, the election demonstrated uncommon national unity, citing how voters in Kano State overwhelmingly supported Abiola over their own son, Alhaji Bashir Tofa of the National Republican Convention (NRC).
“The June 12 election was a rejection of poverty, injustice, bad governance, nepotism and oppressive leadership. Nigerians voted for hope and a better future,” the party stated.
The SDP lamented that the annulment of the election by the military government denied Nigerians the benefits of the leadership and reforms that an Abiola presidency would have delivered.
It noted that the decision triggered widespread protests, civil resistance and political instability, leading to the imprisonment and eventual death of MKO Abiola, while many pro-democracy activists paid dearly for the struggle.
The party commended former President Muhammadu Buhari for officially recognising June 12 as Nigeria’s Democracy Day and giving national recognition to the sacrifices made by Abiola and other democracy heroes.
However, the SDP argued that successive administrations had failed to fulfil the aspirations that inspired Nigerians to vote for Abiola.
According to the party, the masses are still battling rising poverty, soaring living costs, unemployment, corruption, insecurity, poor governance and weakening public institutions.
“Three decades after, the hope and promises that MKO Abiola’s presidency would have delivered are yet to be enjoyed by Nigerians,” it said.
The party also took a swipe at the present administration, claiming that many citizens are facing severe hardship despite promises of renewed hope.
“The reality on the ground today is one of renewed hopelessness, worsening economic conditions and growing despair among the people,” the statement added.
Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, the SDP said it remains the most credible alternative platform for Nigerians seeking genuine change.
The party declared that under the leadership of Prof. Sadiq Umar Abubakar Gombe as National Chairman and Prince Adewole Adebayo as its presidential candidate for 2027, it is prepared to revive the spirit of June 12 and deliver people-centred governance.
It pledged to strengthen public institutions, fight corruption, improve security, implement the socio-economic objectives contained in Chapter Two of the Constitution and create opportunities that would make life better for all Nigerians.
The SDP urged Nigerians not to give up on democracy, warning that freedom can only survive when citizens remain vigilant and actively hold leaders accountable.
It also called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to remain independent and conduct elections in a manner that reflects the will of the people.
“We call on INEC to work for democracy and not the interests of a few. That is the only way it can earn the confidence and trust of Nigerians,” the party said.
The SDP described the 2027 general elections as a defining moment for Nigeria’s democracy and urged all stakeholders to put the national interest above personal or political considerations.
While celebrating Democracy Day, the party paid tribute to MKO Abiola, Alhaja Kudirat Abiola and all the heroes and martyrs of the June 12 struggle whose sacrifices helped restore democratic rule in the country.
It assured Nigerians that it would continue to stand with the people and offer credible candidates capable of transforming the nation.
“2027 is a critical juncture for democratic consolidation. We must work together to make democracy work and build a Nigeria that all citizens can be proud of,” the statement concluded.
