Shettima: Tinubu Carries the Torch of Abiola’s Democratic Legacy

Kashim Shettima

Vice President Kashim Shettima has said that President Bola Tinubu embodies the democratic vision of the late Chief MKO Abiola, decades after Nigeria’s pivotal June 12 moment. Speaking at the public lecture marking Nigeria’s 26th Democracy Day at the Aso Rock Presidential Villa, Abuja, Shettima reflected on the enduring influence of Abiola’s ideals and the symbolic continuity of leadership in Tinubu.

He described the late Abiola as a true patriot who gave everything for the sake of Nigeria’s democracy. According to the Vice President, the belief in Abiola’s dream continues to inspire hope and has now come full circle with Tinubu—a close ally of Abiola during the democratic struggle—leading the nation.

“In the drama of history, fate has returned the baton of Abiola’s democratic mission to one of his most committed allies—President Bola Tinubu,” Shettima stated. “The denied Abiola-Kingibe ticket finds new life and purpose in this administration, not just in its structure but in its resolve.”

He praised Tinubu as a leader who kept Nigeria’s democratic aspirations alive through adversity and expressed gratitude for being part of an administration that honors that legacy.

Shettima emphasized that Abiola’s sacrifice did not go in vain. Instead, it sparked a nationwide resolve to uphold justice, defend the right to choose, and honor those who paid the ultimate price for freedom.

He also highlighted the role of countless unsung heroes—ordinary citizens whose sacrifices shaped the nation’s democratic landscape—and credited the Tinubu administration for staying true to democratic values by reaching across political, ethnic, and generational divides.

“Democracy is a collective burden,” he said, urging Nigerians to come together to safeguard the nation’s democratic foundation from any form of destabilization.

Backing Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” agenda, Shettima called on citizens to support efforts to institutionalize good governance and build a resilient democratic system immune to backsliding.

Also speaking at the event, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, paid tribute to Nigeria’s democratic heroes and urged continued dedication to the values they championed. He encouraged stakeholders to support the Tinubu-led administration in steering the nation toward peace, prosperity, and progress.

Delivering the keynote address, political science professor Samuel Egwu stressed that democratic success hinges on commitment from both leaders and citizens. He noted that realizing the full benefits of democracy requires consistent efforts that prioritize the public good over personal interests.

The Cameroonian High Commissioner to Nigeria, HE Salaheddine Ibrahim, praised Nigeria for its enduring unity despite challenges and called for unwavering commitment to preserving democratic values.

Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State and Chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum also addressed the gathering. He described the recognition of June 12 as Democracy Day as a deliberate national choice born out of collective struggle. He highlighted President Tinubu’s past and present contributions to Nigeria’s democracy as a model of courage and determination.

The event concluded with the unveiling of three books—Tinubunomics, Leading with Courage, and Turning Challenges into Opportunities—which chronicle the achievements and vision of the Tinubu administration.

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