Why We Changed Democracy Day To June 12 – Buhari

President Muhammadu Buhari on Sunday in his Democracy Day speech revealed why the yearly celebration was shifted by his administration from May 29 to June 12.

According to Buhari, Democracy Day was reviewed to remind Nigerians of a free and fair election of the MKO Abiola which was annulled.

The president further stated that Nigerians were denied their rights and their choice following the annulment of the election.

He noted that Nigerians must not forget the sacrifices of the heroes of Nigeria’s democracy during 1993.

Buhari in his statement said, “From 1999, we consistently celebrated Democracy Day to mark the end of military rule and the return of power and control into the hands of those freely elected by the people. On this day, Nigerians recommit themselves to ensuring we protect and preserve the ideals of democracy.

“In 2018, we moved Democracy Day from the 29th of May to the 12th of June. This change was to remind all Nigerians of one free election after which the presumed winner along with Nigerians was denied their rights and their choice.

“On June 12th 1993, Nigerians saw the best in our citizens as we all went out to vote peacefully. By June 24th 1993, we also saw the worst of our leadership as the elections were annulled.

“We must never forget the sacrifices of the heroes of Nigeria’s democracy during 1993.”