The Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED) has accused Nigerian leaders of reducing June 12 Democracy Day to a mere ceremonial event, saying the ideals that inspired the historic struggle for democracy remain largely unfulfilled more than three decades after the annulled 1993 presidential election.
In a statement issued on Thursday in Abuja, signed by CHRICED Executive Director, Comrade Ibrahim M. Zikirullahi, and Communications Officer, Furera Isiaka to mark the 2026 Democracy Day celebration, CHRICED described June 12 as a day that should provoke national reflection rather than government pageantry. The organization noted that the election, won by late Chief , symbolized the hopes of Nigerians for justice, accountability, and good governance before it was annulled by the military administration of.
According to the group, the annulment represented a betrayal of the Nigerian people and led to the persecution of pro-democracy activists, while Abiola ultimately died in custody. CHRICED maintained that despite those sacrifices, the promises of prosperity, dignity, and an end to corruption associated with the June 12 struggle have yet to be realized.
The organization acknowledged the decision of former President to officially recognize June 12 as Democracy Day but argued that the move has not translated into meaningful reforms capable of advancing democratic values and improving the welfare of ordinary Nigerians.
CHRICED lamented that Democracy Day celebrations have become annual exercises in official speeches and public ceremonies while millions of Nigerians continue to grapple with economic hardship, rising inflation, insecurity, unemployment, and widespread poverty. It stressed that democracy must be measured by the quality of life of citizens rather than government rhetoric.
The group further stated that June 12 should serve as a reminder of the sacrifices made by citizens who fought for democratic governance and human rights. It called on political leaders to move beyond symbolic gestures and focus on policies that protect vulnerable populations, secure communities, create jobs, and restore public confidence in governance.
To strengthen Nigeria’s democracy ahead of the 2027 general elections, CHRICED demanded reforms in the electoral process, including improvements in voter registration by the , greater transparency and independence in the judiciary, people-centered governance, issue-based politics, and expanded opportunities for citizen participation in public affairs.