By James Isaac, Abuja
The Senator representing Ebonyi South Senatorial District in the 10th National Assembly, Senator Ani, has reaffirmed that democracy is now firmly rooted in Nigeria, having run uninterrupted for 26 years.
He made this assertion on Thursday, June 12, 2025, during an interaction with journalists at the National Assembly in Abuja as part of the activities marking this year’s Democracy Day celebration.
According to the lawmaker, democracy remains the most inclusive form of governance, adding that nations that adopt democratic systems have the welfare of their citizens at heart.
“Democracy is for everyone,” he stated, “and any nation that truly practices it always has the masses in mind.”
Reflecting on Nigeria’s democratic journey, Senator Ani recalled the pivotal events of June 12, 1993, when courageous Nigerians resolved to enthrone democracy, led by the late Chairman of the National Electoral Commission (NEC), Professor Humphrey Nwosu.
He commended President Bola Tinubu for honoring democratic icons during a special joint session of the National Assembly to mark Democracy Day. Among those recognized was the late Prof. Nwosu, who was posthumously conferred with the national honor of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON).
“I am happy with what the President has done today,” Senator Ani said. “Late Humphrey Nwosu was a man of courage and integrity. He stood firm against the military and ensured that the June 12, 1993, elections held despite several attempts to sabotage them under the then military regime of Gen. Ibrahim Babangida.”
He further noted that even Babangida had admitted that the late Chief M.K.O. Abiola won the election, and that Prof. Nwosu was determined to announce the results before he was stopped by the military.
“Today, June 12 has been institutionalized and democracy has come to stay in Nigeria. I’m truly happy about that,” he added.
