Elder Statesmen, Leaders and Activists to Chart Nigeria’s Future at June 12 Democracy Dialogue in Lagos
A host of distinguished national figures — including elder statesmen, sitting and former governors, renowned human rights advocates, and influential thought leaders — will gather in Lagos today for a pivotal national dialogue commemorating Nigeria’s 32nd Democracy Day anniversary.
The high-profile event will serve as a platform for deep reflection on the state of the nation and an exploration of Nigeria’s democratic future.
Organized in partnership with the June 12 Pro-Democracy Movement of Nigeria, the gathering is part of an annual tradition of setting the national agenda through focused dialogue on issues critical to Nigeria’s democratic evolution.
This year’s theme, “June 12: Democracy Without a Democratic Constitution – Which Way for Nigeria?”, highlights the tension between democratic ideals and the structural realities of governance under the current constitutional framework.
The Nigeria Democracy Day Dialogue is convened by a coalition of civic and intellectual leaders, with a formal statement issued by Professor Anthony Kila, one of the coordinators.
The statement emphasized the urgency of addressing foundational issues in Nigeria’s political system, noting that any vision of true democracy must be anchored in a constitution that genuinely reflects the will of the people.
Key speakers at the forum include former Commonwealth Secretary-General and Chairman of The Patriots, Chief Emeka Anyaoku; Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State; and former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Aminu Tambuwal. These national figures will be joined by a powerful roster of voices across the political and civic spectrum.
Among the other notable participants are: General Ike Nwachukwu (rtd), former military administrator, Dr. Olisa Agbakoba (SAN), constitutional lawyer and civil rights advocate, Professor Mike Ozekhome (SAN), legal scholar, Barrister Femi Falana (SAN), prominent human rights lawyer, Dr. Obiageli Ezekwesili, public policy expert and former minister, Professor Kingsley Moghalu, economist and former presidential candidate, Senator Shehu Sani, activist and former lawmaker, Aare Dele Momodu, media entrepreneur, Barrister Adewole Adebayo, presidential aspirant and legal practitioner
Other expected attendees include youth leaders and grassroots mobilizers such as Alhaji Shettima Yerima, Barr. Malachy Ugwummadu, Comrade Josef Eva, Comrade Ayo Adewale, and veteran democracy advocate Olawale Okunniyi.
The event is scheduled to begin at 11 a.m. at Lagos Travels Inn, Ikeja, Lagos. It aims to amplify public demand for the creation and adoption of a new, truly democratic constitution—one that reflects the aspirations and sovereignty of the Nigerian people.
Following the formal dialogue, the day’s activities will culminate in a tribute session at the Lagos residence of Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola, the widely acclaimed winner of the June 12, 1993 presidential election. That election, considered the freest and fairest in Nigeria’s political history, was annulled by the military regime, sparking decades of democratic struggle.
In honour of Abiola’s martyrdom and his pivotal role in Nigeria’s democratic journey, participants will undertake a symbolic procession from the conference venue to his former home at 42/46 MKO Abiola Crescent, off Toyin Street in Ikeja.
This commemorative walk will feature key figures from Nigeria’s democracy movement, who will pay homage to the late Abiola’s legacy and reaffirm their commitment to advancing the cause of democratic governance.
The event, according to the organizers, is not only a moment for remembrance but also a renewed call to action for structural reforms and people-led governance. It reinforces the collective determination to ensure that democracy in Nigeria is rooted in justice, equity, and genuine constitutional legitimacy.