Presidential candidate of the National Rescue Movement (NRM), Esther Okereke, has stated that June 12 should be viewed as more than just a date on the calendar, emphasizing that it symbolises the sacrifices made for Nigeria’s democracy.
Esther Okereke stated that 33 years ago, Nigerians across ethnic and religious lines came together, not for political parties, but for a common national vision.
In a statement issued to commemorate Democracy Day, the presidential hopeful paid tribute to late Chief MKO Abiola, Kudirat Abiola, China Ubani, Gani Fawehinmi, Beko Ransom-Kuti, alongside several unnamed student leaders, journalists, and civil rights activists who risked their lives during the struggle for democracy.
According to her, their sacrifices were not made for empty rhetoric, but for a Nigeria where citizens could live with dignity, security, and equal opportunities.
“If we forget them, we dishonour their memory. But remembrance without action is only lamentation, and Nigerians are already tired of lamenting,” she said in the statement personally signed on Friday.
Esther Okereke admitted that democracy in Nigeria is facing serious challenges, citing concerns over justice, elections, poverty, and the rising cost of living.
“The court you seek for justice may sometimes fail to deliver it. The vote you cast in hope may disappear along the way. The market woman’s profit can vanish because of inflation before the day ends,” she stated.
She further noted that millions of Nigerians living in poverty are not just statistics, but real people facing daily hardship.
Despite the challenges, she maintained that Nigeria can still thrive through hard work, unity, and commitment rather than despair.
Addressing young Nigerians, Okereke urged them not to lose hope in the country, encouraging them to channel their talents and skills into nation-building.
She also called on civil servants to serve with pride and appealed to Nigerians in the diaspora to contribute meaningfully to national development.
According to her, the heroes of June 12 made sacrifices so Nigerians could work together in building a better country, rather than remain divided.
