It was a gathering of progressives and other like minds at Excellence Hotel, Ogba, Lagos to celebrate the 23rd anniversary of the June 12,1993 election described as the freest and fairest in the annals of Nigeria at that time. Theme for this year's annual anniversary lecture organized by Oodua People’s Congress led by Otunba Gani Adams is The Spectre of June 12, Change Agenda and Democratic Consolidation in Nigeria.
In his opening remarks Otunba Adams stated emphatically that Chief MKO Abiola remains the hero and foundation of the democracy we now enjoy today., he therefore deserves to be immortalized by the Nigerian government. He also stated that adoption of the recommendations of the last constitutional conference is key to achieving true federalism as most of the challenges have been identified and addressed.
The event which was chaired by Admiral, Ndubuisi Kanu (rtd) , also had in attendance Dr Joei Okei - Odumakin, Debo Adesina, Tony Uranta, Alhaji Shettima representing Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF) Prof. Duro Oni among others.
Alhaji Shettima while acknowledging the importance of the June 12,1993 election and Chief MKO Abiola to the history of Nigeria disagreed with the agitation for the adoption of the recommendations of the national confab stating that its composition was faulty.
Buska, popular activist and Senior Special Adviser to Governor Mimiko however stated emphatically that adoption of the recommendations of the last constitutional conference is sacrosanct as it is the position of the Yorubas. He argued that as long as the representatives are Nigerians they are entitled to speak on the people's behalf. He said the Yoruba race have sacrificed quality heroes and heroines including MKO and Kudirat Abiola who deserve to be celebrated nationally.
Social commentator and activist of the Niger Delta extract Tony Uranta requested that the result of the 1993 election be officially announced and the due entitlements of a President - elect be extended to his family. He should also be honored.
Other recommendations at forum was that June 12 be affirmed as Democracy Day as against May 29.
Guest Speaker Prof. Duro Oni eulogized MKO and chronicled landmarks preceding the election as well as x-ray in the political landscape till now.
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