Local government chairmen in Lagos State have applauded Nigeria’s 26 years of uninterrupted democracy as the country celebrates democracy day.

President Bola Tinubu chose to deliver a formal address to a joint session of the National Assembly on Thursday as opposed to an earlier planned nationwide broadcast in commemoration of Nigeria’s 26th Democracy Day anniversary.

The Executive Chairman of Oshodi-Isolo Local Government, Kehinde Oloyede, congratulated Nigerians on this historic milestone on democracy day.

Mr Oloyede, in a statement, described June 12, as a symbol of the resilience, sacrifice, and collective will of Nigerians to uphold democratic values.

He urged Nigerians to continue to promote unity and peaceful coexistence, stressing that democracy could only thrive in an atmosphere of mutual respect, tolerance, and national solidarity.

Mr Oloyede said, “As we celebrate over two decades of sustained democracy, we must reflect on how far we have come and recommit ourselves to building a more just, inclusive, and prosperous nation.’’

The council chairman also called for continued support for the Tinubu-led administration, adding that his bold and strategic decisions were already yielding positive results across critical sectors of the economy.

“Though the journey has not been without challenges, the reforms being implemented at the national level are laying the foundation for long-term growth and stability,” he added.

The Executive Chairman of Alimosho Local Government, Jelili Suleiman, said that “Today, we celebrate our nation’s journey towards democratic governance and the sacrifices of those who fought for our freedom.

“These sacrifices by both individuals and collectives certainly do not go unnoticed. While some of these heroes have returned to their Lord, others are still breathing fresh air.

“One of such persons who is still with us today is the President of Nigeria, President Tinubu, a true democrat and a significant force in the democracy we are enjoying today. Beyond his sacrifices for the existence of democratic governance, he has and still contributes to the unprecedented development of our great nation, Nigeria.”

Also, Chairman, Mosan Okunola Local Council Development Area, Olabisi Adebajo, congratulated Nigerians on the momentous occasion.

“May our democratic values continue to guide us today and towards a brighter future for all and reaffirm our commitments to upholding the principles of democracy, promoting good governance, and serving our citizens.

“We pray that we continue to strive for a Nigeria where democracy brings prosperity, peace, security and progress to all,” she said.

In her contribution, the Chairman of Ifelodun LCDA, Olufemi Okeowo, said that democracy day celebration reflected deep respect for the sacrifices and struggles of our heroes.

“Today, as we mark democracy day, we reflect with deep respect for the sacrifices and struggles of our heroes past. The foremost among them, the late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola, whose historic victory in the June 12, 1993 presidential election remains a defining moment in Nigeria’s democratic journey.

“That election, widely acclaimed as the freest and fairest in our nation’s history, was unjustly annulled. Yet, the ideals it represented, justice, equity, and the voice of the people, have endured, and they continue to inspire our democratic evolution.

“We commend President Tinubu for his unwavering commitment to strengthening democratic institutions, promoting good governance, and pursuing impactful reforms that are already yielding positive results across critical sectors,” he said.

On his part, Chairman, Agege Local Government, Ganiyu Egunjobi,  urged residents to support the Tinubu restructuring plans and vote for APC in the council elections.

He said, “I extend my heartfelt gratitude to each of you for your mandate and support since 2017. Your trust has enabled us to achieve significant milestones. As we commemorate this day, I urge you to continue supporting President Tinubu’s administration. His policies are driving our nation’s growth and development.

“As we approach the July 12 local government elections, I call on you to vote for All Progressives Congress (APC) candidates. Together, we can build a prosperous Agege.”

Besides, Chairman of Bariga LCDA, Kolade David, said, “democracy day holds profound significance for the nation, marking a pivotal moment in the collective journey towards a truly democratic society.

“Democracy day is more than just a public holiday; it is a solemn remembrance of the struggles and sacrifices made by our heroes, who fought tirelessly for the restoration of democratic rule in Nigeria. It commemorates the annulled June 12, 1993, presidential election, widely regarded as the freest and fairest in our history, and honours the memory of Chief MKO Abiola, whose mandate was tragically denied, but whose spirit of resilience continues to inspire us.

“This day serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring power of the people’s will and the importance of upholding the principles of justice, equity, and freedom,” Mr Kolade said.

Chairman of Ayobo-Ipaja LCDA, Ladi Oluwaloni, said that democracy was not just about elections but about accountability, service, inclusion, and development.

“Today, we celebrate the strength of our voices, the power of our choices, and the beauty of our unity as a people,” he said.

Also speaking, Chairman of Kosofe Local Government, Moyosore Ogunlewe, applauded the courage and sacrifices of Nigeria’s democratic heroes, particularly MKO Abiola, whose mandate epitomised the June 12 struggle.

The council boss said that the late Gani Fawehinmi was also a fearless human rights activist and acknowledged the contributions of Messrs Tinubu and Wole Soyinka to the country’s democratic journey.

The council chairmen wished the people in their various local governments a happy democracy day, reaffirming their commitment to democratic ideals.

(NAN)