32 Years After June 12: Nigeria’s Democracy Under Threat, Say Pdp, Afenifere, Ohanaeze, Acf, Others

LAGOS — As Nigeria commemorates 32 years since the annulled June 12, 1993, presidential election, prominent political and socio-cultural groups have raised serious concerns over the state of democracy under the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led government.

Despite former President Muhammadu Buhari’s 2018 declaration recognizing June 12 as Democracy Day in honour of Chief MKO Abiola, the presumed winner of the historic election, stakeholders believe the core ideals of that struggle are being undermined.

PDP: Democracy in Decline

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) accused President Tinubu’s administration of authoritarianism and erosion of democratic values. Spokesman Debo Ologunagba and Youth Leader Timothy Osadolor decried what they called a betrayal of Tinubu’s pro-democracy roots, citing disregard for court orders and a shrinking civic space.

ACF: Democratic Ideals Undermined

The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) described Nigeria’s democracy as regressing, with democratic norms like electoral integrity, judicial independence, and accountability being routinely violated. Its spokesperson, Prof. Tukur Muhammad-Baba, warned that without urgent reforms, genuine democracy may remain elusive for decades.

Afenifere: Democracy Still a Work in Progress

Pan-Yoruba group Afenifere, through its leader Pa Reuben Fasoranti, acknowledged democratic progress since 1999 but called for sustained efforts to deepen civil rule. The group urged civil society and progressive forces to continue the push for justice, equity, and good governance.

Ohanaeze: Democracy at a Dead End

Ohanaeze Ndigbo described Nigeria’s democracy as being in a “cul-de-sac,” citing institutional weakness and personalization of power. Spokesman Dr Ezechi Chukwu stressed the need for restructuring to enable true federalism and effective governance.

Okorie: Democracy is Comatose

Chekwas Okorie, founding chairman of APGA, said Nigeria’s democratic institutions are failing. He accused INEC of losing public trust, the judiciary of being compromised, and the legislature of becoming mere appendages to the executive.

Dele Momodu: A Slide into Civilian Dictatorship

PDP chieftain and former presidential hopeful Dele Momodu expressed alarm over what he termed a descent into civilian dictatorship, blaming political leaders for eroding the hard-earned gains of June 12.

CNPP: APC Betraying June 12 Legacy

The Conference of Nigeria Political Parties (CNPP) condemned the APC for betraying the democratic values it once championed. It criticized the party for failing to enact meaningful electoral reforms or promote a people-driven constitution.

CUPP: Democratic Gains Eclipsed

The Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) accused current leaders of undermining the legacy of June 12 through electoral fraud, political violence, and suppression of opposition. National Secretary Peter Ameh demanded urgent democratic reforms and transparency in governance.

SDP: Leadership Conspiracy Hindering Progress

The Social Democratic Party (SDP), Abiola’s former party, lamented that the nation is far from realizing his vision. In a statement by spokesman Rufus Aiyenigba, the SDP described Nigeria’s current leadership as detached from the democratic ideals Abiola died for.