By CALEB ISHAYA
A member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Working Committee, Tolu Bankole, has called for a renewed national commitment to inclusive and accountable governance at all tiers, as Nigeria marks Democracy Day.
Bankole described June 12 as a reminder of the nation’s collective yearning for justice, freedom, and participatory governance.
In a statement he personally signed Thursday in Abuja, said the events of June 12 symbolises the courage and resilience of Nigerians in their unrelenting demand to have their voices respected through the ballot box.
“June 12 remains a symbol of sacrifice, resilience, and the unyielding demand of the Nigerian people for their voices to be heard through the ballot,” he stated.
Quoting Abraham Lincoln’s definition of democracy as “government of the people, by the people, and for the people,” Bankole aligned this view with the United Nations’ definition, which frames democracy as thriving in an environment where human rights are protected, and the will of the people is respected.
The Party man stressed that democracy must go beyond periodic elections and be deeply rooted in good governance, accountability, respect for the rule of law, and inclusive citizen participation.
Bankole noted that 26 years into Nigeria’s unbroken democratic journey, it is crucial to move past mere ceremonial observance of democratic ideals. “True democratic governance today must be evident in the operations of all arms and levels of government,” he said
He praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for continuing to uphold the values of June 12, describing him as one of the principal heroes of Nigeria’s democratic struggle.
“His determined resistance to military rule and advocacy for democratic ideals helped shape the democratic foundations we now enjoy,” he noted.
He added that Tinubu’s presidency reflects a bold and visible commitment to inclusive leadership and reform.
