President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced national honours for dozens of Nigerians who played key roles in the struggle to restore democracy.
The President made the announcement in a nationwide Democracy Day broadcast.
He said the honours are intended to recognise individuals who suffered persecution, imprisonment, exile and various forms of hardship in pursuit of democratic governance.
“I am also pleased to announce national awards to the following Nigerians, who suffered persecution, endured indignities, exile, incarceration, and, at times, solitary confinement, so that we have democracy today,” he said.
Those named by the President include veteran journalists, lawyers, human rights activists, labour leaders and political figures who were active during the June 12 struggle.
Among those listed are Barrister Ayoka Lawani, Tunde Fagbenle, Oladele Alake, Olatunji Bello, Louis Odion, Segun Babatope, Sam Omatseye, Sir Ademola Osinubi, Bola Bolawole, Lade Bonuola, Femi Kusa, Debo Adeniran, Chief Ayo Opadokun, Chief Ralph Obiora, Ose Osayande and Professor Sylvester Odion-Akhaine.
Others include Dr Arthur Nwankwo, Ben Charles-Obi, Dr Joe Okei-Odumakin, Richard Akinnola, Dr Niran Malaolu, Major-General Ishola Williams (rtd), Femi Aborisade, Gbemiga Ogunleye, Babajide Kolade-Otitoju and Ike Okonta.
The President also recognised military officers who stood on the side of democracy during the June 12 struggle.
“We also recognise the soldier-democrats of the June 12 struggle,” he said.
Those listed include Major General M.A. Garba, Brigadier General Lawal Jaafaru Isa, Colonel Sambo Dasuki, Colonel Lawan Gwadabe, Brigadier Jonathan Ndam Temlong, Major General Chris Eze, Major General Harris Dzarma and Brigadier Yahaya Abubakar, the Etsu Nupe.
The President said the complete honours list would be formally released in the coming days.
“The honours list will be released in the next few days.”
He described the award recipients as patriots whose courage and sacrifices ensured that democracy survived in Nigeria.
According to him, future generations must learn from their example and continue defending democratic values and institutions.
