Abuja: A former Senator representing Kaduna Central Senatorial District, Shehu Sani, has praised President Bola Tinubu for bestowing national honors upon pro-democracy activists, acknowledging their contributions during the June 12 struggles. Sani expressed his commendation while speaking with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, this marks the first instance in the Fourth Republic where a Nigerian president has formally recognized the contributions and sacrifices of the nation’s freedom fighters and civil rights activists. Sani highlighted that, over the past 26 years, those who fought for democracy, faced imprisonment, endured exile, or even lost their lives had not been acknowledged until President Tinubu’s recent actions during the June 12 anniversary.
Sani emphasized that receiving this award is not a personal accolade but a testament to the courage of those who stood up against the military junta when it was perilous to do so. The recognition serves as a significant morale booster, inspiring both the recipients and others to persist in advocating for justice, freedom, and democracy in Nigeria.
Reflecting on the historical context, Sani noted that today’s younger generation, particularly those aged 30 to 35, may not fully grasp the challenges faced under military rule. He pointed out that 60% of Nigerians were born after 1999, resulting in a majority unfamiliar with life under military governance. This lack of experience, he suggested, sometimes fuels misguided support for military rule among the youth.
Sani also highlighted that President Tinubu’s background in activism adds significance to the recognition. During the resistance following the annulment of the June 12 presidential election, many politicians withdrew their support for Abiola, but Tinubu remained committed, eventually joining activists in the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO).
Sani recounted Tinubu’s sacrifices, including selling personal property to support the pro-democracy struggle. He underscored the diverse groups that constituted the pro-democracy movement, including activists, the political class, media, labor unions, and students’ unions. Tinubu’s contributions, in collaboration with these groups, were instrumental in advocating for democracy during a tumultuous period in Nigeria’s history.
