By Atoyebi Nike
President Bola Tinubu will on Thursday deliver his Democracy Day address before a joint session of the National Assembly, replacing the traditional early morning broadcast. The Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation confirmed the change, citing scheduling reasons.
The shift comes as political figures weigh in on national unity. Former PDP Deputy Chairman, Olabode George, called on Tinubu to reinstate suspended Rivers Governor Siminalayi Fubara, describing it as a gesture in line with the spirit of June 12. However, former Ijaw Youth Council leader, Udengs Eradiri, countered, saying Fubara has shown no commitment to reconciliation.
Marking the 32nd anniversary of the annulled 1993 election, leaders, including House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas and Governor Bala Mohammed, highlighted Nigeria’s democratic gains, while civil society activist Ken Henshaw argued that Nigeria’s development has regressed under democracy.
Meanwhile, pro-government youth groups announced solidarity marches and warned against planned anti-government protests, urging peaceful observance of the day.
