The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has declared that Nigeria’s democracy remains fragile and incomplete 33 years after the annulled June 12, 1993 presidential election, describing the country’s democratic journey as still burdened by unresolved governance and electoral challenges.
In a statement issued on Friday to mark Democracy Day, the party reflected on the historic significance of the 1993 election, widely regarded as the freest and fairest in Nigeria’s history, and the nationwide resistance that followed its annulment.
The statement, signed by Ini Ememobong, National Publicity Secretary of the party’s Interim National Working Committee, said the PDP remains committed to defending and deepening democracy beyond electoral cycles.
It noted that Nigerians in 1993 demonstrated rare unity at the ballot box, transcending ethnic and regional divisions in pursuit of national progress, but said the annulment triggered a crisis that weakened trust in democratic institutions and led to loss of lives.
“Thirty-three years later, the lessons of June 12 ring out more resoundingly than ever,” the statement read, calling on the Federal Government to uphold democratic freedoms, protect civil rights, and ensure transparency in electoral processes.
The party stressed that the electoral umpire must maintain impartiality and fairness, describing these as minimum standards necessary for the survival of democracy.
The PDP further accused the current administration of failing to fully internalise the lessons of June 12, alleging continued strain on civil liberties and democratic accountability under the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
It cited reports of protesters being dispersed during Democracy Day commemorations in Abuja and claimed that activist Omoyele Sowore was injured while participating in a protest demanding the release of abducted schoolchildren and teachers.
According to the party, such incidents reflect what it described as a preference for “optics over action” and undermine the symbolic significance of Democracy Day.
Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, the PDP urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and ensure that democratic gains are not eroded.
It added that the sacrifices of past democratic struggles should serve as enduring warnings against any return to anti-democratic governance practices.
