The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State has called for more accountable leadership and progressive governance as Nigerians marked the 2026 Democracy Day celebration.
The call was made on Friday, June 12, 2026, in Osogbo during a Democracy Day programme organised by the Civil Society Committee of the APC 2026 Campaign Council with the theme, “Democracy and the Ideals of Progressive Governance.”
Speaking at the event, the APC governorship candidate, Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji, represented by his running mate, Kayode Adereti, described June 12 as a symbol of the collective resolve of Nigerians to pursue freedom above ethnic, religious, and other differences.
Adereti urged citizens to continue holding leaders accountable while supporting efforts aimed at delivering the dividends of democracy.
He said the sacrifices of Chief M.K.O. Abiola and other pro-democracy heroes should inspire leaders and citizens to work for the progress of the country.
According to him, “I urge Nigerians to continue to hold our leaders accountable while giving them the support they need to succeed. As leaders in our respective positions, I enjoin us to make sacrifices and keep doing our best to deliver the dividends of democracy to our people. As the late hero, MKO Abiola, championed, we are the heroes of today. Democracy has come to stay.”
In his remarks, the Director-General of the APC Osun 2026 Governorship Campaign Council, Hon. Oluwole Oke, described June 12 as a symbol of sacrifice, resilience, justice, and the struggle for accountable governance.
He noted that democracy remains a hard-earned right that must be protected and strengthened by both leaders and citizens.
Oke paid tribute to the late Chief M.K.O. Abiola and other democracy activists whose sacrifices contributed to Nigeria’s return to democratic rule.
Hon. Oke stressed that democracy must translate into tangible benefits for the people, citing the constitutional mandate that prioritises the security and welfare of citizens.
He noted that governance at all levels must deliver improved infrastructure, quality education, accessible healthcare, economic opportunities, and social justice.
Also speaking, the National Commissioner representing Oyo and Osun States at the Federal Civil Service Commission, Dr. Gboyega Oyebade, urged workers and residents to support leaders committed to improving welfare and advancing development. He also canvassed support for Oyebamiji ahead of the August 15 governorship election in the state.
Addressing journalists, the APC candidate for Osun Central Senatorial District, Kunle Rasheed Adegoke (SAN), said Nigerians must preserve the democratic gains achieved through the sacrifices of past leaders.
He stressed the need for credible leadership capable of promoting prosperity and development.
In his remarks, civil society advocate Comrade Amitolu Shittu commended former President Muhammadu Buhari for recognising June 12 as Democracy Day and praised President Bola Tinubu for sustaining the initiative.
Dignitaries at the event included former Osun Deputy Governor, Chief Mrs. Grace Titilayo Ponle; Osun APC Chairman, Tajudeen Lawal; Executive Director of Operations of the Nigerian Ports Authority, Dr. Abdulrahman Lekan Badmus, APC party leaders, and members, among others.
