From Victor Osula, Abuja
President Bola Tinubu on Thursday paid tribute to Nigeria’s democratic icons and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to multi-party democracy, dismissing claims of a plot to establish a one-party state.
Addressing a joint session of the National Assembly in Abuja, the President saluted the late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola, acclaimed winner of the annulled June 12, 1993 presidential election, describing him as the “symbol of Nigeria’s democracy.”
Tinubu also honoured other pro-democracy figures including Abiola’s wife, Kudirat; Alfred Rewane; Anthony Enahoro; and Pa Abraham Adesanya, among others, for their sacrifices in the struggle for democracy.
“Our democracy is not perfect, but it is strong. And this means our dream of a prosperous, happy nation is still within reach and worth fighting for,” the President declared.
He praised the National Assembly for its historic role in defending democratic values, including rejecting a third-term bid in 2006 and invoking the “doctrine of necessity” in 2010.
On recent speculations about moves to stifle opposition, Tinubu said: “To those who ring the alarm that the APC is intent on a one-party state, I offer you a most personal promise. At no point have I directed INEC to deny registration to any political party.”
The President noted that his political history defied the idea of one-party dominance, recalling how he stood alone in 2003 as the only opposition governor in the South-West.
“Our efforts must never be to eliminate political competition, but to make that competition salutary to national well-being,” he added.
On economic matters, Tinubu listed gains recorded under his administration, including GDP growth of 3.4 per cent in 2024, improved foreign reserves, a stable exchange rate, and declining inflation.
He also unveiled plans to empower young Nigerians through consumer credit initiatives and digital infrastructure, as well as continue tax reforms to support businesses.
Reiterating his administration’s commitment to national security, Tinubu thanked the Armed Forces for their sacrifices and pledged continued investment in intelligence and inter-agency coordination.
In honour of Democracy Day, Tinubu conferred posthumous national honours on several democracy advocates including Kudirat Abiola (CFR), Shehu Musa Yar’Adua (GCFR), Pa Alfred Rewane (CFR), Chief Bola Ige (CFR), and Chief Frank Kokori (CON).
Also honoured were literary icon Prof. Wole Soyinka (GCON), human rights lawyer Femi Falana (CON), journalists Bayo Onanuga (CON) and Kunle Ajibade (OON), and several civil society activists and public figures.
“As we mark 26 years of unbroken democracy, it is right to honour those who braved all odds to give us this freedom. The journey is not over. We must stay the course and believe that Nigeria can and will rise again,” the President said.
