Emmanuel lkpeama.
The Lagos State Chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has joined millions of Nigerians in celebrating Democracy Day 2026, paying tribute to the heroes of the June 12 struggle while reaffirming its commitment to good governance, democratic values, and national development.
In a statement signed by the State Chairman of the party, Hon. (Pastor) Cornelius Ojelabi, the APC described June 12 as a historic symbol of sacrifice, resilience, patriotism, and the unwavering determination of Nigerians to secure democratic governance.
The party noted that this year’s Democracy Day celebration is particularly significant as Nigeria marks 27 years of uninterrupted democratic rule under the Fourth Republic and reflects on the 33rd anniversary of the June 12, 1993 presidential election, widely regarded as one of the freest and fairest elections in the nation’s history.
According to the statement, the occasion offers an opportunity to honour the late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (M.K.O.) Abiola, GCFR, whose sacrifice became a defining chapter in Nigeria’s democratic journey.
The party also paid tribute to the late Kudirat Abiola and numerous pro-democracy activists, journalists, labour leaders, students, women groups, civil society advocates, and ordinary Nigerians who endured persecution, imprisonment, exile, and even death in the struggle to restore democratic rule.
“The sacrifices of these heroes remain the foundation upon which our democracy stands today. Their courage and commitment continue to inspire our collective quest for justice, freedom, national unity, and sustainable development,” the statement said.
The APC Lagos Chapter commended former President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, for officially recognising June 12 as Nigeria’s Democracy Day and for honouring Chief M.K.O. Abiola and other democracy advocates.
The party described the decision as a landmark act that corrected a long-standing historical injustice and aligned the nation’s democratic celebration with the true symbol of the people’s struggle.
The statement also praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his pivotal role in the pro-democracy movement and his continued dedication to strengthening democratic institutions and promoting national development through the Renewed Hope Agenda.
According to the party, the current administration’s reform initiatives are geared towards strengthening institutions, expanding economic opportunities, restoring investor confidence, and laying the groundwork for long-term national prosperity.
Highlighting the unique place of Lagos in Nigeria’s democratic history, the APC noted that the state served as the epicentre of the June 12 struggle and remains the cradle of progressive politics in the country.
The party further applauded the administration of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu and Deputy Governor Dr. Obafemi Hamzat for sustaining the state’s development trajectory through strategic investments in transportation, healthcare, education, housing, infrastructure, technology, environmental sustainability, youth empowerment, and economic growth.
It stressed that the APC remains proud of its progressive legacy, which has transformed Lagos into Africa’s leading sub-national economy and a globally recognised centre of excellence.
The party also reaffirmed its commitment to the protection of lives and property, assuring Nigerians that APC-led governments at all levels remain determined to strengthen security institutions, support security agencies, and confront criminality across the country.
Expressing confidence in the growing support for the APC among Lagosians, Ojelabi noted that the party continues to expand in strength, acceptance, and grassroots influence because of its commitment to service, inclusion, performance, and people-oriented governance.
He urged party leaders, members, stakeholders, and supporters to remain united, disciplined, and committed to the progressive ideals that have sustained the party’s success over the years.
“As the ruling party in Lagos State and the governing party at the federal level, we bear a special responsibility to provide leadership, stability, and direction.
The confidence reposed in us by the people must continue to be justified through dedicated service, exemplary conduct, and results-driven governance,” he stated.
The APC chairman emphasized that unity, vigilance, peace, and cohesion remain critical to preserving the party’s achievements and maintaining its leadership position.
He reaffirmed the party’s commitment to deepening democracy, promoting good governance, supporting the Renewed Hope Agenda, and building a stronger, more prosperous, secure, and united Nigeria.
The statement concluded with a call on Nigerians to continue upholding the values of patriotism, democratic participation, peace, and national unity, while honouring the sacrifices of those who fought for the democracy the nation enjoys today.
“May the sacrifices of our democratic heroes never be forgotten, and may God continue to bless Lagos State and the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Happy Democracy Day,” the statement concluded.