Some Lagos State lawmakers on Wednesday commended President Muhammadu Buhari for declaring June 12 as the “Democracy Day” and naming the Abuja National Stadium after Chief MKO Abiola, after 26 years of the annulment of June 12 1993 presidential election.
Mr Taiwo Kolawole, an APC lawmaker representing Ajeromi Ifelodun Federal Constituency in the Lagos State House of Assembly, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that legalising June 12 as democracy day was a remarkable event.
According to him, President Buhari has been a listening president from the outset of his administration, who knows the significance of democracy.
“June 12, 1993 was a remarkable day in this country that should not be forgotten like that. And I think the new development will bring more dynamism to our democratic system.
“MKO Abiola was also a sports lover when he was alive and I command the president for remembering him for his pains in sustaining democracy and sports development in the country,’’ he said.
Kolawole also hailed the President’s speech, particularly its focus on security and economic development, noting that the Buhari administration was loaded with responsibilities that would benefit the masses.
“The National Assembly is also ready to make their contribution towards national development through various laws to ensure even development across board.
“We now have a Senate that will be there for the people with consistence, focusing on the people’s directions,’’ he said.
Mr Rotimi Olowo, a member of the Lagos State House Assembly (LAHA) representing Shomolu Constituency 1, said that it was a development long expected from the government.
Olowo said that making June 12 democracy day by the present administration showed that the government indeed recognises the martyrs and the heroes of democracy.
“Recognising today, June 12 as democracy day showcases a new development in the democratic dispensation in the country.
“Though it is long overdue but thanks to president Muhammadu Buhari, for giving the people the long expected mandate that will strengthen our democratic institutions,’’ he said.
Also, Mr Abiodun Tobun, a LAHA member representing Epe Constituency 1, commended the president for giving honour to whom honour was due.
Tobun said the new development would seriously generate a new significance for the democratic system of the country.
“This shows that our president is an honest and sincere man for giving honour to whom honour is due.
“Legalising June 12 as a democracy day will symbolise our democracy and give the citizens confidence to depend more on the democratic system.
“I think what the government needs much more now is the cooperation and collaborations of the people, to ensure a better dispensation,’’ he added.
