By Victor Akaa
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa OFR, on behalf of the officers and men of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN), extends warm felicitations to His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, and all Nigerians on the occasion of Democracy Day. This is coming as the country marks 25 years of uninterrupted and unbroken democratic rule.
In a statement issued by the Director Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau on June 12, 2024 said, General Musa reaffirms the unwavering commitment and loyalty of the AFN to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the President, Commander-in-Chief. The CDS assures that the AFN remains dedicated to supporting and strengthening democracy for the benefit of all Nigerians, collaborating with national and sub-national institutions to entrench constitutional governance.
He acknowledges the sacrifices made by members of the Armed Forces in various theatres of operation across the country, a testament to their commitment to the unity and growth of Nigeria. He urges personnel to uphold the tenets of democracy, safeguard citizens’ rights, and ensure a peaceful and secure environment for all.
General Musa also appeals to all Nigerians to remain positive in the face of challenges and to support the AFN in the fight against terrorism and criminality. He assures them that victory is within sight.
The CDS wishes President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and all Nigerians a happy and peaceful Democracy Day celebration.
Recall that on May 29, 1999, Nigeria embarked on its journey of civil rule, marking 25 years of uninterrupted democracy. However, in 2018, President Muhammadu Buhari declared June 12 as the new Democracy Day to honour the sacrifices of those who fought for democracy in 1993, particularly the late MKO Abiola.
This move aimed to immortalize their contributions to Nigeria’s democratic journey. Since then, Nigeria has been celebrating its Democracy Day on June 12, recognizing the country’s progress towards democratic consolidation and the struggles of pro-democracy activists, Enugu Reporters noted.
