Dangiwa Umar Commends Tinubu for Honouring June 12 Heroes, Urges Deeper Democratic Reforms

Retired military officer, Colonel Abubakar Dangiwa Umar (Rtd), has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for recognising the contributions of military officers and other pro-democracy activists who played key roles in the struggle against the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election.

In an open letter addressed to the President, Umar expressed appreciation for the public recognition accorded to the officers during Tinubu’s Democracy Day address on June 12, 2026, describing the gesture as “fit and proper” for citizens who risked their lives in the fight to restore democratic governance in Nigeria.

He also praised the President for honouring civilian democracy advocates whose sacrifices contributed to overturning the annulment of the historic election won by the late Chief Moshood Abiola.

According to Umar, June 12 remains a defining moment in Nigeria’s democratic journey and deserves continued commemoration. He noted that while some heroes have now been recognised, others who made significant contributions to the struggle should also be identified and honoured in future celebrations.

The former military officer, however, urged the President to ensure that the ideals that inspired the June 12 struggle are reflected in government policies. He stressed that those who fought for democracy envisioned a system built on strong institutions, separation of powers, judicial independence, credible elections, economic policies that protect citizens’ welfare, and a determined fight against poverty.

Umar noted that security was considered a fundamental responsibility of government and warned that no democratic system can thrive if citizens are unable to live in safety.

He further recalled that many Nigerians supported Tinubu’s emergence as President because of his long-standing advocacy for equity, transparency, inclusion, and social justice, expressing hope that the administration would remain committed to the promises of the Renewed Hope agenda.

“To ensure that the sacrifices made during the June 12 struggle do not go in vain, those democratic ideals must once again become the cornerstone of national policy,” Umar stated.

He concluded by thanking the President for recognising the contributions of June 12 heroes and expressed confidence in Nigeria’s continued democratic development.