By Henry Obetta
LAGOS — Prominent pro-democracy activists, Hafsat Abiola, President of the Kudirat Initiative for Democracy (KIND), and Joe Okei-Odumakin, President of Women Arise, have called on Nigerians to re-organise and recommit to building a democratic system that reflects citizens’ aspirations.
In a joint statement titled “Alhaja Kudirat Abiola: 30 Years After”, the activists reflected on the legacy and sacrifice of Kudirat Abiola, who was assassinated in 1996 during the struggle for the restoration of democracy in Nigeria.
They described her as a symbol of courage and resistance against military rule, noting that her efforts, alongside other pro-democracy figures, helped shape Nigeria’s return to civilian governance.
“June 4 marks the 30th anniversary of the death of our mum and dear friend, Alhaja Kudirat Abiola, who was assassinated on the orders of the then military regime,” the statement read.
The activists said despite the return to democracy, Nigeria and other African countries continue to face deep challenges, including insecurity, poverty and declining public trust in governance.
They warned that growing disillusionment with democratic systems is spreading across the continent, as citizens struggle to see improvements in living standards and public services.
According to them, elections alone are not enough to guarantee meaningful change unless citizens remain organised and actively engaged in shaping policy direction.
“Some critics point out that it is easier to change political parties through elections than to change the policies elected officials adopt,” they said.
The statement urged Nigerians to move beyond feelings of helplessness and embrace collective organisation as a tool for political and social transformation.
“Organisation is the lever that aggregates individuals so that they can move their world,” they said, adding that the legacy of Kudirat Abiola should inspire renewed civic action and engagement.
They further called for continued reflection on the sacrifices made during the June 12 pro-democracy struggle, urging Nigerians to build on that foundation to strengthen democratic governance.
