Akanbi, who represented Oyo South Senatorial District in the Senate between 2015 and 2019, described the decision as a significant development and a fitting recognition of the late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola.
In his message marking the declaration, the former senator said June 12 represented an important turning point in Nigeria’s political history.
“It is indeed a great move and a very welcome development,” Akanbi said.
According to him, the recognition of June 12 goes beyond the declaration of a public holiday, as the date reminds Nigerians of the country’s long struggle for democratic governance and the sacrifices made by several citizens during the years of military rule.
The June 12, 1993 presidential election, in which Abiola of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) was widely regarded as the leading candidate, was annulled by the military administration headed by General Ibrahim Babangida.
Akanbi said the events surrounding the election remained an important part of Nigeria’s democratic history and should continue to remind citizens of the importance of the right to choose their leaders through the ballot box.
“Today, we celebrate the momentous rebirth of our nation’s democracy, marking the continuation of a leadership that is inclusive and represents the interest of every Nigerian,” he said.
The former senator commended Buhari for giving legal backing to the recognition of June 12, describing the move as an important step in acknowledging the sacrifices associated with Nigeria’s democratic journey.
He said the country had experienced numerous challenges over the years but maintained that Nigerians could overcome them by drawing lessons from the resilience of those who contributed to the restoration and sustenance of democratic rule.
“In retrospect, the last three decades have been filled with many challenges; our nation has been faced with tough times, yet our history shows these are not insurmountable,” Akanbi said.
He urged Nigerians to recognise the strength that comes from their shared experiences and collective commitment to the country.
Akanbi also called for greater unity among citizens, stressing that Nigerians could achieve more when they worked together despite their differences.
He said democracy should not be regarded simply as a privilege but as a responsibility that must be protected and strengthened for the benefit of future generations.
The former lawmaker also paid tribute to Nigerians who contributed to the country’s democratic development, including human rights activists, members of the armed forces, religious leaders, lawmakers and others who played various roles during the struggle for democratic governance.
He particularly remembered those who faced political difficulties during the military era, including members of the Third Republic, and cited Senator Rilwan Adesoji Akanbi among those he said stood for their convictions.
Akanbi said remembering the heroes of Nigeria’s democratic struggle should go beyond observing a public holiday.
He urged Nigerians of different backgrounds, social classes, ethnic groups, ages and religious affiliations to embrace the spirit of statesmanship, understand their differences and work together towards national development.
“As we reflect and celebrate June 12 as our Democracy Day, I urge us all to march into the future with the knowledge that in the spirit of togetherness, we can achieve a lot more for our common prosperity,” Akanbi said.
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