The Edo State chapter of the Social Democratic Party, SDP, on Thursday join millions of Nigerians to commemorate the June 12 democracy day.
The day is in recognition of the June 12, 1993 presidential election believed to be the freest, fairest and the most credible in the history of Nigeria.
The candidate of the SDP in the poll, chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola, was adjudged the winner of the election.
The Nigeria government has now recognized June 12, as ‘Democracy Day’, instead of the May 29, it was formerly observed.
Speaking on the occasion, Edo State chairman of the Social Democratic Party, Elder Felix Obayagbon observed that the day was an occasion for members of the party to join fellows citizens across the nation to celebrate the courage and collective will of the people in sustaining democracy.
“This day reminds us of the sacrifices made by our heroes of democracy especially chief M.K.O. Abiola and it also calls us to reflects on our shared responsibility, to build a better and more just Nigeria through active participation and unity of purposes,” he stated.
On the occasion, the Edo State SDP chairman announced the relocation of the party’s secretariat from No. 11 Erhunmwunse Street, in Oliha Market area of the Benin metropolis to No. 13 Nevis Street, off Mission Road, Benin City.
The announcement of the secretariat’s relocation elicited reactions from members of the party; who expressed joy over the development, more so that the SDP is set to receive thousands of defectors from other political parties into its fold.
According to them, the new secretariat which is more spacious would accommodate more members during meetings as well as allow for more space during other events.
Speaking further, Elder Obayagbon implored the members to be more united, focus and determined to move the party forward.
According to the SDP Chairman, the relocation of the party’s secretariat represents not just a change in location but a movement towards greater strength, visibility and influence for the party in the state.
The June 12 democracy day celebration afforded the SDP members to deliberate on how best to move the party forward in Edo State.
