Post by Francis Onabis (@Onabis)

#Nigeria

Why Celebrate June 12?
June 12 is celebrated in Nigeria as Democracy Day, a date chosen in remembrance of the historic June 12, 1993 presidential election, widely regarded as the freest and fairest election in the nation's history. It symbolizes the struggle for democratic governance and the sacrifices made by countless Nigerians who fought against military rule.
However, looking at what is happening in Nigeria today, many citizens are forced to ask: What exactly are we celebrating?
Democracy is not merely about holding elections. It is about ensuring that the will of the people is respected, protecting lives and property, upholding the rule of law, and providing accountable leadership. When these foundations are weak, the celebration of democracy begins to feel hollow.
Today, insecurity continues to plague many parts of the country. Communities live in fear of bandits, terrorists, kidnappers, and violent criminals. Citizens increasingly question whether the government can fulfill its most basic responsibility—the protection of lives and property.
The electoral process itself has also come under intense scrutiny. Many Nigerians have lost confidence in elections, believing that outcomes are often determined by factors other than the genuine will of the people. When citizens no longer trust the ballot box, democracy itself is weakened.
June 12 should not merely be a day of speeches and ceremonies. It should be a day of reflection—a day to assess whether Nigeria is living up to the democratic ideals for which many sacrificed. It should challenge leaders to strengthen institutions, guarantee electoral integrity, and restore public trust.
The true way to honour the heroes of June 12 is not by declaring a public holiday. It is by building a nation where every vote counts, where leaders are accountable, where justice is impartial, and where citizens can live without fear.
Until Nigeria commits itself to free and fair elections, strong institutions, and genuine democratic accountability, many will continue to ask whether Democracy Day is truly worth celebrating—or whether it has become a reminder of how far the nation still has to go.

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