Former Senate President, Bukola Saraki, has cautioned that Nigeria could witness a repeat of the June 12 crisis if democratic institutions remain weak and unable to safeguard the will of the people.
Saraki stated that no democratic nation can achieve lasting stability and prosperity with a weak legislature, stressing that strong parliaments are essential to good governance and accountability.
Speaking in an interview with Vanguard, the former Kwara State governor emphasized that there is a clear distinction between opposing a government and ensuring effective checks and balances within a democratic system.
According to him, the agitation that followed the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election was driven by citizens demanding that their votes and voices be respected.
He argued that Nigeria must focus on building institutions capable of outlasting individual leaders, noting that a strong and independent legislature is critical to sustaining democracy.
Saraki maintained that robust legislative institutions are not a threat to government but rather a pillar of transparency, public trust, and democratic legitimacy.
He said nations that enjoy freedom, stability, and prosperity are built on strong parliamentary systems that hold governments accountable while representing the interests of citizens.
Reflecting on the June 12 experience, Saraki noted that democracy was undermined not because citizens failed, but because institutions responsible for defending the people’s mandate were too weak to do so.
He stressed that strengthening institutions—not reducing political engagement—is the solution to preventing similar democratic setbacks in the future.
The former Senate President further urged lawmakers to remain responsive to the needs and concerns of the people, warning that when legitimate channels for public grievances are weakened, frustrations can manifest in more dangerous ways.
Saraki added that a vibrant legislature serves as a vital platform where citizens’ concerns can be raised, debated, and addressed, helping to preserve national stability and strengthen democratic governance.
June 12 is celebrated annually in Nigeria as Democracy Day in remembrance of the annulled 1993 presidential election, widely regarded as the freest and fairest in the country’s history and believed to have been won by Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola.
For eye witness news report, Contact us SNOW TV NEWS via snowmediatv@gmail.com or WhatsApp on +2348143077239
FOR MORE INFO, TRENDING AND BREAKING NEWS UPDATE, FOLLOW OUR SOCIAL MEDIA CHANNEL @OFFICIALSNOWTV