“I heartily felicitate Nigerians on this occasion of Democracy Day.
“As we all know, our great Nation identified great national ethos in the 1993 Presidential Election, which was universally adjudged to be free and fair, as worthy of annual commemoration.
“That Election, despite its unfortunate annulment, was a watershed in the political history of Nigeria.
“Although June 12 represented an initial setback in our democratic journey, the lessons it served has tremendously strengthened our resolve to be a united and democratic nation that is the pride of Africa and Black people across the world.
“I salute the heroes and heroines of Democracy in Nigeria. My special tribute to Bashorun M. K. O. Abiola and the other men and women who made the supreme sacrifice for the survival of democracy in our country. This Day shall forever affirm that their labour was not in vain.
“Nigeria has taken giant strides in its democratic journey. We can proudly note that this Fourth Republic is already the longest in our history and that it is also growing stronger. The onus is on us individually and collectively to continue to play our parts in sustaining the gains that we have made towards firmly entrenching democracy on our land.
“We have just witnessed the inauguration of new governments at the federal and state levels after keenly contested free and fair elections. It behoves on us as a people to give our utmost support to the new administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as he strives to deliver on his promise of a Renewed Hope for Nigeria.
“I have no doubt that this new government will take Nigeria to greater heights. So let’s accord it our utmost cooperation and support.
“The 10th National Assembly is due for inauguration on Tuesday. It is my sincere hope that the new Assembly will relate harmoniously with the Executive arm of government for the benefit of the people.
“Wishing you all a happy Democracy Day.”
