Aarebirin Hon. Princess Dr Folashade Olabanji-Oba, the Executive Vice Chairman of Ikorodu Local Government and National Chairman of the Association of Local Government Vice Chairmen of Nigeria (ALGOVC) has lauded President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR and the resilient spirit of Nigerians at home and abroad on the occasion of Democracy Day, marking 25 years of uninterrupted democratic governance in Nigeria.
As the Convener of ‘Grow Ikorodu’, and the Asiwaju Distinguished Ambassadors Movement (ADAM), Folashade-Oba highlighted the significance of this milestone.
She commended the steadfastness of the Nigerian people in upholding democratic values and paid homage to the late Chief MKO Abiola, whose contributions to Nigeria’s democratic journey remain influential.
In her message, Folashade-Oba stated, “We honour the memory of Chief MKO Abiola, a champion of democracy who paved the way for this momentous day. His sacrifice and legacy continue to inspire us.”
She urged all Nigerians to continue promoting unity, peace, and progress in the nation. “Congratulations to all great and wonderful Nigerians!” she added.
In a broader statement, Folashade-Oba reflected on the journey of Nigeria’s democracy.
She noted that today marks not only 25 years of uninterrupted democracy but also 31 years since the historic presidential election, widely considered the freest and fairest in Nigeria’s political history.
Despite its annulment and the subsequent crises, the memory of that election remains vivid.
“Days like this remind me of the struggle, determination, and courage of great comrades who paid the supreme price for what we all refer to as democracy in Nigeria today,” she said.
She emphasized the need for renewed patriotism and dedication to national service, urging citizens to contribute their talents, energy, and ideas to the country’s development.
Folashade-Oba called on Nigerians to shift their focus from what the country can do for them to what they can do to grow Nigeria.
She detailed the efforts of various generations in fighting colonialism, dictatorship, and imperialism, and called on her generation to continue the struggle for a better Ikorodu and Nigeria as a whole.
“As we remember the heroes of our democracy, let’s ponder and reflect on the Nigeria project and our role as citizens. I join Nigerians in immortalizing Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola, whom I regard as the father of Nigeria’s fourth republic and the true hero of our present democracy,” she concluded.
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