President Bola Tinubu has conferred a national honour on Osa Director, the Publicity Secretary of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).
Director is among 50 Nigerians recognised by President Bola Tinubu for their contributions to the pro-democracy struggle that led to the restoration of civilian rule in the country.
The President Bola Tinubu made the announcement during the 2026 Democracy Day celebration on Friday.
He noted that several of the honourees endured persecution, imprisonment, exile, and other forms of hardship during the struggle, adding that their sacrifices helped secure the democratic freedoms Nigerians enjoy today.
The recipients cut across journalists, civil rights activists, political leaders, and military officers who took part in the campaign against military rule.
Director’s name appeared under the category of “Soldier-Democrats,” which comprises military officers who were involved in efforts against military dictatorship.
BACKSTORY…
Director is among 50 Nigerians recognised by President Bola Tinubu for their roles in the pro-democracy struggle that led to the restoration of civilian rule in the country. The recognition was made during the 2026 Democracy Day celebrations held on June 12, a date set aside to honour Nigeria’s democratic journey and the sacrifices made during the agitation against military rule.
The award is rooted in the broader June 12 struggle, which followed the annulment of the 1993 presidential election widely believed to have been won by the late Chief M.K.O. Abiola. The annulment sparked widespread political unrest and years of pro-democracy activism involving journalists, civil rights advocates, political leaders, and members of the military who opposed dictatorship.
Nigeria eventually returned to civilian rule in 1999, marking the end of decades of military governance. The latest honours, according to President Tinubu, recognise individuals who endured persecution, imprisonment, exile, and other forms of hardship during the struggle, and whose efforts contributed to the democratic freedoms the country enjoys today.
