By Daniel Oluwatobiloba Popoola
The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress has paid tribute to the heroes of Nigeria’s democratic struggle and reaffirmed its commitment to democratic governance, national development and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda as the nation marks Democracy Day 2026.
In a statement issued on Friday,June 12, 2026 and signed by the Lagos APC Chairman, Cornelius Ojelabi, the party joined Nigerians in celebrating 27 years of uninterrupted democratic rule under the Fourth Republic and the 33rd anniversary of the June 12, 1993 presidential election.
The APC said the occasion serves as a reminder of the sacrifices, courage and patriotism of Nigerians who fought for the restoration of democracy, noting that the nation’s democratic journey was built on the resilience and determination of the people.
The party paid glowing tribute to the late Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola, describing him as the enduring symbol of the June 12 struggle and one of the most significant figures in Nigeria’s democratic history.
It also honoured the late Kudirat Abiola and numerous pro-democracy activists, journalists, labour leaders, students, women and civil society advocates who endured persecution, imprisonment and exile, while others paid the ultimate price in the struggle to restore democratic rule.
“Their sacrifices remain the bedrock of the democratic freedoms we enjoy today, and their legacy continues to inspire our collective pursuit of justice, freedom, national unity and progress,” the party stated.
The Lagos APC also commended former President Muhammadu Buhari for officially recognising June 12 as Democracy Day and conferring national honours on Chief Abiola and other democracy heroes.
According to the party, Buhari’s decision corrected a long-standing historical injustice and aligned the nation’s democratic celebration with the true symbol of the Nigerian people’s struggle for democratic governance.
The party equally praised President Tinubu for his role in the June 12 movement and his contributions to Nigeria’s democratic development.
“We also salute His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, a foremost democrat and one of the leading figures in the struggle for the actualisation of the June 12 mandate,” the statement said.
The APC noted that under Tinubu’s leadership, Nigeria is implementing bold reforms aimed at strengthening institutions, expanding economic opportunities, restoring investor confidence and laying the foundation for sustainable national growth.
Reflecting on Lagos’ place in the nation’s democratic history, the party described the state as the epicentre of the pro-democracy movement and the cradle of progressive politics in Nigeria.
“It was here that many of the battles for democratic freedom were fought and won. It is therefore fitting that Lagos continues to stand as a model of progressive governance, innovation and sustainable development,” it said.
The APC highlighted achievements recorded under Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu and Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat in transportation, infrastructure, healthcare, education, housing, technology, environmental sustainability, youth empowerment, economic development and social inclusion.
The party said its progressive legacy, continuity in governance and people-focused policies have transformed Lagos into Africa’s leading sub-national economy and a globally recognised centre of excellence.
Beyond development initiatives, the APC reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and property, acknowledging prevailing security challenges while assuring Nigerians that governments at all levels remain determined to tackle criminality and strengthen security institutions.
“Security remains fundamental to development, and we shall continue to work tirelessly to ensure that every citizen can live, work and pursue legitimate aspirations in peace and safety,” the statement added.
The party also expressed satisfaction with what it described as growing public confidence in the APC across Lagos State, noting that its membership base, grassroots structures and political influence continue to expand.
“Indeed, the APC in Lagos State is rising in leaps and bounds because it remains firmly committed to service, performance, inclusion and the welfare of the people,” it stated.
Calling for unity among members, the party urged leaders, stakeholders and supporters to uphold the values of peace, discipline, loyalty and mutual respect, warning against actions capable of undermining its cohesion.
“We must not allow personal interests or temporary disagreements to undermine the unity that has remained our greatest strength,” the statement said.
The APC described itself as the most formidable political movement in Lagos State and Nigeria, attributing its success to organisational strength, progressive governance and unity of purpose.
It urged members to remain peaceful, vigilant and committed to placing the interests of the party and the people above personal ambitions.
“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 exemplary conduct, dedicated service and results-driven governance,” the party stated.
Reaffirming its commitment to deepening democracy and promoting good governance, the APC pledged continued support for policies aimed at building a stronger, more prosperous, secure and united Nigeria.
“May the sacrifices of our democratic heroes never be forgotten, and may God continue to bless Lagos State and the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” Ojelabi said.
