June 12: Adeleke Urges Residents To Participate Peacefully In Democratic Process

As Nigeria celebrates 2026 Democracy Day, Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke has urged residents of the state to continue to participate peacefully and constructively in the democratic process.

Speaking at the June 12 Democracy Day celebration in Osogbo, Osun State Capital, Adeleke noted that the strength of democracy depends not only on elected leaders but also on active and responsible citizenship.

Adeleke, who was represented at the occasion by his deputy, Prince Kola Adewusi said June 12 was set aside for the celebration of the resilience of the people, the strength of the institutions and the enduring triumph of democracy.

The Governor noted that the significance of this day is rooted in the historic presidential election conducted on June 12, 1993, saying the election, won by the late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (M.K.O.) Abiola, is widely regarded as the freest, fairest and most credible election in Nigeria’s history.

“Nigerians, irrespective of ethnicity, religion or political affiliation, voted overwhelmingly in a remarkable demonstration of national unity and democratic maturity.

“However, the annulment of that election by the military government on June 23, 1993, plunged our nation into political uncertainty and triggered a prolonged struggle for the restoration of democratic governance.”

Speaking on the coming August 15 governorship election in the state, Adeleke urged residents of the state to eschew all forms of violence, intimidation, hate speech, provocation and any action capable of disrupting public peace.

He said, “As we approach the next gubernatorial election in our dear State, I urge every resident of Osun State to eschew all forms of violence, intimidation, hate speech, provocation and any action capable of disrupting public peace. I call on all political actors to educate their supporters on the need for peaceful engagement throughout the electoral process.

“We celebrate the resilience of our people, the strength of our institutions and the enduring triumph of democracy.

“Our security agencies, electoral officials and relevant stakeholders must also remain committed to ensuring a peaceful, transparent and credible electoral process. The will of the people remains the cornerstone of democracy and must always be respected.

“Let us therefore work together to ensure that the forthcoming election is conducted in a peaceful atmosphere that guarantees free, fair and credible outcomes, so that the genuine choice of the people of Osun State may prevail.”