UMUAHIA, Abia State — The Abia State chapter of the Labour Party has commemorated June 12 as a powerful symbol of democracy, urging citizens to register for their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and actively participate in shaping Nigeria’s political future.
In a statement issued on Sunday to mark the anniversary of the historic 1993 presidential election, the party described June 12 as the day Nigerians spoke with one voice against oppression and military dictatorship. The election, widely believed to have been won by the late Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola, was annulled by the military regime of General Ibrahim Babangida, triggering a prolonged struggle for democratic restoration.
The Labour Party’s state chairman, in the statement signed on behalf of the party leadership, called on all eligible Nigerians who have not yet registered to obtain their PVCs without delay. He argued that the sacrifice made by pro-democracy activists who fought for the return of civilian rule would be meaningless if citizens fail to exercise their right to vote in forthcoming elections.
According to the party, June 12 serves as a reminder that democracy is not a gift from any government but a right won through the blood, sweat, and tears of countless Nigerians. The chairman specifically honoured the memories of Chief MKO Abiola, his wife Kudirat Abiola, and numerous unnamed pro-democracy activists who lost their lives in the struggle against military rule.
The Labour Party further criticized what it described as the gradual erosion of democratic values under successive civilian administrations. It argued that while Nigeria has maintained an unbroken record of democratic governance since 1999, the quality of that democracy remains questionable, with electoral malpractices, vote-buying, and voter apathy threatening the integrity of the system.
To address these challenges, the party urged citizens to take personal responsibility for the democratic process. The chairman emphasized that obtaining a PVC is only the first step; voters must also monitor the conduct of elections, protect their votes, and hold elected officials accountable between election cycles. He warned that those who refuse to participate in the democratic process have no right to complain about poor governance.
The Abia Labour Party also called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure that the upcoming off-cycle and general elections are conducted in a free, fair, and transparent manner. The party demanded that INEC fully implement the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) and the electronic transmission of results to prevent the kind of irregularities that have marred previous elections.
As part of the June 12 commemoration, the party organized a low-key event in Umuahia, featuring speeches, cultural displays, and a minute of silence for fallen heroes of democracy. Party faithful were encouraged to go out into their communities to sensitize residents about the importance of voter registration and participation in the electoral process.
The Labour Party concluded its statement by reaffirming its commitment to the principles of democracy, justice, and equity. The party leadership expressed confidence that with active citizen participation, Nigeria can overcome its current challenges and realize the dreams that June 12 once promised but was cruelly denied. For now, the party’s message is clear: the memory of June 12 must not fade, and the duty of every citizen is to keep democracy alive through action, not just remembrance.
