The enduring legacy of the June 12 struggle and the sacrifices that paved the way for Nigeria’s democratic rebirth took centre stage in Osogbo as political leaders, public affairs experts, civil society advocates and stakeholders gathered to commemorate Democracy Day under the theme, “Democracy and the Ideals of Progressive Governance.”
The event, organized by the Civil Society Committee of the APC 2026 Campaign Council, served as a platform for reflection on Nigeria’s democratic journey, honouring the heroes of the June 12 movement while reaffirming the need for accountable leadership, inclusive development and progressive governance.
The Director-General of the APC Osun 2026 Gubernatorial Campaign Council, Hon. Oluwole Oke, Member representing Obokun/Oriade Federal Constituency and Chairman of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, described June 12 as a defining symbol of sacrifice, resilience, justice and the struggle for accountable governance.
According to Oke, democracy must be continuously nurtured and defended by citizens and leaders alike.
“June 12 reminds us that democracy is not a gift, but a hard-earned right that must be protected and strengthened by every generation,” he said.
He paid tribute to the late Chief M.K.O. Abiola and other heroes of democracy whose sacrifices paved the way for Nigeria’s democratic experience.
Speaking on governance and public service, Dr. Gboyega Oyebade Olowogboyega, National Commissioner representing Oyo and Osun States at the Federal Civil Service Commission and former Head of Service of Osun State, urged workers and citizens to support leaders committed to improving their welfare and advancing development.
He also used the occasion to rally support for the APC governorship candidate, Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji (AMBO), ahead of the 2026 governorship election in Osun State.
Addressing journalists on the sidelines of the event, Comrade Amitolu Shittu commended former President Muhammadu Buhari for officially recognizing June 12 as Democracy Day and honouring the memory of Chief M.K.O. Abiola. He equally praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for sustaining the recognition and preserving the ideals associated with the struggle.
Shittu noted that many individuals who were not part of the democratic struggle eventually became beneficiaries of the democratic order that emerged after military rule, describing June 12 as a day for both friends and opponents of democracy to reflect on the nation’s political evolution.
The event featured Barrister Kunle Adegoke (SAN) as Chairman of the Day, while Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji (AMBO) was honoured as the Distinguished Personality of the Day. Former Deputy Governor of Osun State, Chief Mrs. Grace Titilayo Ponle, served as Mother of the Day.
Among dignitaries in attendance were APC National Secretary, Dr. Surajudeen Ajibola Basiru; Senator Solomon Olamilekan Yayi; Osun APC Chairman, Sooko Tajudeen Lawal; and Executive Director of Operations, Nigerian Ports Authority, Dr. Abdulrahman Lekan Badmus.
Traditional institutions were also represented, with the Aragbiji of Iragbiji Land, HRM Oba Abdulrasheed Olabomi, serving as Royal Father of the Day.
Beyond the speeches and tributes, the celebration reinforced the historic significance of June 12 as a defining chapter in Nigeria’s democratic evolution. It reflected the struggles and sacrifices that birthed the nation’s current democratic order and demonstrated how history continues to absolve, vindicate and honour the defenders of democracy whose courage helped shape modern Nigeria.
