June 12: Five Key Things To Know About Nigeria’s Most Historic Election
As Nigeria commemorates Democracy Day 2025, the nation reflects on the annulled June 12, 1993, presidential election, widely considered Nigeria’s most credible. MKO Abiola's victory was nullified by then-military president Ibrahim Babangida, sparking widespread protests and a brutal crackdown resulting in numerous deaths, including Abiola's while in detention. The annulment fueled a pro-democracy movement, ultimately contributing to the return to civilian rule in 1999. In 2018, Democracy Day was officially moved to June 12 in Abiola's honor. Despite Babangida's later expression of regret, the scars and lessons of June 12 remain, with questions lingering about the motives behind the annulment and the military's role in hindering Nigeria's democratic progress. June 12 symbolizes resistance, sacrifice, and the ongoing pursuit of a better Nigeria.
