A former Special Adviser on Political Matters to ex-President Muhammadu Buhari, Senator Babafemi Ojudu has called on President Bola Tinubu to not just honour the heroes of the June 12 democracy struggle with national awards only, but with good governance.
Ojudu, in a statement titled ‘Democracy, Conviction and the True Meaning Of Honor,’ issued on Saturday, contended that Nigerians is currently bedeviled with the lingering challenges of hunger, insecurity, among others, which the government needs to address.
He also noted that the true honour to Nigerians who fought for democracy will be in free and fair electoral process where every vote counts, strong and accountable political institutions, an economy that allows citizens to live with dignity, a society where life and property are secure and a government that listens to the people it serves.
“I believe we should collectively call on President Tinubu to bestow the greatest honour possible – not just on individuals, but on the entire Nigerian populace. That honour lies in good governance.”
Ojudu also commended Tinubu for honouring the legacy of June 12 by granting pardon to the Ogoni Nine and bestowing national awards to the living and dead frontliners in the quest for Nigeria’s return to true democratic governance.
His words, “Nigerians today are facing hardships that, in many cases, rival or even surpass the difficulties experienced under military rule. From economic instability to growing insecurity, from lack of access to basic services to a feeling of disenfranchisement, the promise of democracy seems distant for many of our fellow citizens.
“This, I believe, is the legacy that those of us who fought for democracy envisioned. And this, I hope, is the path the current administration will embrace.
“Let me begin by extending my heartfelt congratulations to my colleagues—Dapo Olorunyomi, Bayo Onanuga, Kunle Ajibade, Seye Kehinde, and many others—who have been deservedly recognized for their courage and contribution to the fight for democracy. Their recognition is also, in many ways, recognition of all of us who walked that difficult road. Any honor extended to them is an honor I proudly share,” the former Senator said.
Sodiq Yusuf is a trained media practitioner and journalist with considerable years of experience in print, broadcast, and digital journalism. His interests cover a wide range of causes in politics, governance, sports, community development, and good governance.
