By Ibrahim Kegbegbe
As Nigeria marks Democracy Day today, Thursday, June 12, 2025, Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, a chieftain of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) and the party’s gubernatorial candidate in the 2023 general election in Ogun State, has called on the federal and state governments to practise democracy in its truest and most meaningful form.
In a passionate statement released to mark the day’s significance, Ajadi urged Nigerian leaders to move beyond mere ceremonial celebrations and entrench the ideals of justice, equity, and people-centred governance.
He also admonished the electorate to become ambassadors of good democratic conduct.
Reflecting on his personal experience of the historic June 12, 1993, political crisis that followed the annulment of Nigeria’s freest and fairest election, Ambassador Ajadi recounted a traumatic incident from his childhood:
“So, it happened that year, my mother was eager to take us to safety. She was dragging us along the road, as we ran from the town of Odinjo. We were actually trekking to our village, Osengere area, Egbeda Local Government, Ibadan, Oyo State.
“When I could no longer bear the pressure and pain of the long and tedious dragging, I was forced to hesitate. I asked my mother why we were running and where we were going.
“She responded that there was war in the town and daily feeding had become difficult. She said if we wanted to survive, we had no option but to seek refuge in a peaceful town.”
The trauma of that day, he said, remains etched in his memory and fuels his commitment to ensuring that democracy in Nigeria is never again derailed by injustice or bad governance.
“Democracy must not only be about elections and political power. It must be about the people—their welfare, their voices, their rights,” Ajadi emphasised.
“The true meaning of Democracy Day should reflect in the lives of ordinary Nigerians. Our leaders must be accountable, and our institutions must be strong and fair.”
Ajadi also stressed the role of citizens in strengthening democratic systems: “Democracy cannot thrive where citizens are indifferent or compromised.
“I urge every Nigerian—whether a voter or public office holder—to be a good ambassador of democratic values: honesty, service, peace, and participation.”
The NNPP stalwart further urged governments at all levels to draw lessons from the historical significance of June 12, saying that the sacrifices made by Nigerians for the democratic freedom being enjoyed today must not be in vain.
Ambassador Ajadi, who has been a vocal advocate for youth inclusion and grassroots development, reaffirmed his commitment to building a Nigeria where democracy delivers tangible benefits for all.
