The establishment of a June 12 memorial dedicated to the heroes of democracy has been advocated.
This demand was made by Lanre Arogundade, the Executive Director of International Press Council, IPC, the guest lecturer at a programme held to mark the 32nd Anniversary of the June 12, 1993 presidential election in Osogbo on Thursday.
Arogundade also described individuals that went for the book launch of former military president, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida as traitors to the ideal of democracy.
He said, “Many Nigerians like Gani Fawehinmi, China Ubani, Beko Ransom-Kuti and others laid down their lives for democracy.
“It is a great disservice to their memories for President Bola Tinubu, who himself was a partaker of the June 12 struggle and others to gather in Abuja for the book launch of General Ibrahim Babangida. We cannot forget that it was during Babangida’s regime that Nigerians heard of the world annulment.
“I advocate that we create a memorial park for these heroes of democracy. The time has come for Nigerians to remember that people died for the democracy we are enjoying today,”; he added.
Arogundade, also called for reforms such as amendment of electoral laws that will benefit the electorates and enfranchise the population and the implementation of the Uwais committee report.
“These reforms must cater for the 35 percent affirmative action for women to participate fully in government. Also the Justice Uwais report should be implemented where it would not be the winner takes it all.
“Not all political parties must be present in Abuja. Room should be given for grassroots political parties. These parties would be more closer to the people rather than one being controlled all the from Abuja.”;
