JUNE 12: Tinubu Warns Against Undermining Democracy 

By Ameenat Hamzat, Lagos, Nigeria

In a firm call to action during his 2025 Democracy Day address, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu warned against any attempts to weaken Nigeria’s democratic foundations, urging citizens and leaders alike to “defend democracy at all costs.”

Speaking before a joint session of the National Assembly in Abuja on Thursday, Tinubu paid homage to the sacrifices made during the June 12 struggle, while reminding Nigerians that the freedoms earned must be safeguarded against complacency, disunity, or authoritarian leanings.

He said: “Democracy is not a finished house we inherited. It is one we must keep building, brick by brick. We must reject voices that call for shortcuts or disruption. We must continue to trust in the process, however imperfect it may seem.”

He also emphasized national unity as the bedrock of progress, calling on all ethnic, religious, and political groups to place Nigeria’s collective future above sectional interests.

The President further appreciated individuals who lakd their lives down on June 12.

He stated: ” Those who laid down their lives on June 12 did not die for a democracy that tears itself apart. They died believing we could rise above our differences and build a just nation.”

Tinubu’s speech marks his second since assuming office as president, and he used the occasion to reaffirm his commitment to electoral reforms, inclusive governance, and national development.