The Conference of Nigeria Political Parties (CNPP) has issued a scathing rebuke of the All Progressives Congress (APC), accusing the ruling party of undermining the spirit of June 12 — a date symbolic of Nigeria’s democratic awakening.
In a strongly worded statement commemorating Democracy Day, CNPP condemned the APC for what it described as the “systematic erosion” of the values that June 12, 1993, came to represent — unity, electoral integrity, and the triumph of the people’s will.
“Today, elections under APC have become a parody of the June 12 ideals,” said Comrade James Ezema, CNPP’s Deputy National Publicity Secretary. “From voter suppression to compromised electoral umpires, the APC has betrayed the very ethos it once claimed to defend.”
June 12 marks the anniversary of Nigeria’s freest and fairest election, won by the late Chief MKO Abiola but annulled by the military. CNPP lauded past efforts, including former President Muhammadu Buhari’s decision to declare June 12 as Democracy Day. However, the coalition said symbolism without substance does little to honour the sacrifices of Abiola and pro-democracy heroes.
A Call to Action: People’s Constitution and 2027 Legacy
The CNPP urged the Federal Government to launch a national process to create a people-driven constitution, one that reflects Nigerians’ aspirations for credible elections, judicial independence, and inclusive governance.
In a direct appeal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, a prominent figure in the June 12 struggle, CNPP called on him to “lead with courage and conscience.”
“History beckons. Tinubu must prove his pro-democracy credentials by ensuring that the 2027 elections are transparent and truly representative of the people’s will,” the statement read.
Drawing a parallel to former President Goodluck Jonathan’s concession in 2015, CNPP challenged Tinubu to rise above partisan interest and cement a democratic legacy.
More Than a Date
As Nigeria marks another Democracy Day, CNPP called on all arms of government, civil society, and the youth to recommit to democratic ideals.
“Democracy is not just a date on the calendar. It is a living covenant — one the APC must honour, not betray,” Ezema concluded.
