June 12: Gabam-led SDP pays tribute to Abiola, seeks credible elections

The Shehu Gabam-led leadership of the Social Democratic Party has paid tribute to the late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola, winner of the annulled June 12, 1993 presidential election, while calling for credible elections and stronger democratic institutions in Nigeria.

The party made the call in a Democracy Day statement issued on Friday by its factional National Publicity Secretary, Zakari Nadabo, as Nigerians marked the 2026 Democracy Day celebration.

He emphasised that June 12 occupies a special place in both Nigeria and SDP history as Abiola contested and won the 1993 presidential election on the platform of the party.

Nadabu also honoured pro-democracy activists, civil society groups, journalists and ordinary Nigerians whose contributions helped restore democratic governance after years of military rule.

He said, “We pay tribute to the courage, sacrifice and patriotism of the late Chief MKO Abiola and all heroes of democracy who stood firm in defence of democratic ideals during one of the most challenging periods in Nigeria’s political history.”

The SDP said Democracy Day should serve not only as a remembrance of past struggles but also as an opportunity for national reflection and recommitment to democratic values.

It also urged Nigerians and political leaders to “embrace the principles that inspired the June 12 struggle, including justice, inclusion, accountability, transparency, national unity and respect for the will of the people.”

“As the political platform that produced the symbol of the June 12 mandate, the SDP reaffirms its commitment to promoting democratic values, national development, social justice and the welfare of all Nigerians,” Nadabu added.

The opposition party further called on Nigerians to continue participating actively and peacefully in the democratic process while urging leaders at all levels to place national interest above personal or political considerations.