Members of the Civil Society Group, led by the Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR), have expressed the belief that Nigeria is yet to experience true democratic rule.
According to the group, successive administrations since the country’s return to democracy in 1999 have prioritized personal and allied interests while only scratching the surface of genuine democratic practices.
These views were expressed by the Chairman of the Lagos State chapter of the CDHR, Comrade Kehinde Adeoye, during a public lecture marking the book launch, 35 Years of Activism, and the 60th birthday celebration of Comrade Musbau Olatunji, held in Ikeja.
Comrade Adeoye lamented that the majority of Nigerians have yet to reap the benefits of the democratic struggles championed by icons like the late Chief Gani Fawehinmi, Dr. Beko Ransome-Kuti, and Baba Omojola.
Highlighting the sacrifices of activists, Adeoye recounted how the celebrant, Comrade Musbau Olatunji, lost his sight due to tear gas fired by security operatives during protests to actualize the June 12, 1993, presidential election annulled by the then-military regime of Ibrahim Babangida.
In his remarks, Comrade Wahab Olumuyiwa, National President of the Agbekoya Movement of Nigeria, praised Olatunji and others who endured various injuries during the protests, commending their dedication to keeping the democratic struggle alive.
Comrade Musbau Olatunji, in his response, expressed gratitude to civil society members, family, and friends for honoring him. He also called on Nigerians to ensure that the sacrifices made by the late Chief MKO Abiola and others for a new Nigeria are not in vain.
As part of the celebration, Comrade Olatunji’s book, My Losses and Gains as an Activist, was unveiled and presented during the public lecture.
