South-East North-West Development Commissions
EKO HOT BLOG reports that President Bola Tinubu delivered a heartfelt tribute to several media organizations on Wednesday, acknowledging their unwavering commitment to the fight for democracy during the military regime.
In his Democracy Day address, Tinubu praised the unrelenting efforts of Nigerian journalists and pro-democracy activists who bravely protested against military rule.
Specifically, he recognized the contributions of esteemed media outlets such as The Punch, The Guardian, National Concord, and TELL, among others, for their courageous stance in the face of adversity.”
He said: “We could not have won the battle against military dictatorship without the irrepressible Nigerian journalists who mounted the barricades along with the pro-democracy activists. We celebrate them today, along with their media establishments such as The PUNCH, Guardian, National Concord, Tribune, The News/Tempo, and TELL Magazines.
“Military authorities proscribed these media establishments and jailed their journalists for standing for free speech and civil liberties.
“Despite the lethal might of the military government, what appeared to be high and unyielding walls of dictatorship came tumbling down. The dismal fortress exists no longer.
“The power of an idea, the power of the people proved more potent than all the guns and munitions, than all the guns, the munitions and the threats of the strongmen.”
Here is a revised version of the text with a more polished tone:
President Bola Tinubu also rendered a poignant tribute to the courageous leaders and activists who valiantly resisted military rule and championed the cause of democratic restoration.
These unsung heroes, through their unwavering dedication and selflessness, played a pivotal role in shaping Nigeria’s democratic journey and ensuring the return of civilian governance.
Tinubu Hails Media Outlets
He said, “We lost great heroes and heroines along the way. In this struggle, the winner of the June 12, 1993, presidential election, Chief MKO Abiola, the most significant symbol of our democratic struggle, his wife, Kudirat, General Shehu Musa Yar’Adua and Pa Alfred Rewane, among others sacrificed their very lives.
“They bravely surrendered their futures, so that our nation might have a better one.
“Let us honour the memories of Chief Anthony Enahoro, Chief Abraham Adesanya, Commodore Dan Suleiman, Chief Arthur Nwankwo, Chief Chukwuemeka Ezeife, Admiral Ndubuisi Kanu, Chief Frank Kokori, Chief Bola Ige, Chief Adekunle Ajasin, Chief Ganiyu Dawodu, Chief Ayo Fasanmi, Chief Gani Fawehinmi, Chief Olabiyi Durojaiye, Dr. Beko Ransome-Kuti, Chima Ubani, and others who have transited to the higher realm.
“The sacrifices of General Alani Akinrinade, Professor Bolaji Akinyemi, Professor Wole Soyinka, Chief Ralph Obioha, and Chief Cornelius Adebayo, among many others, should never be forgotten. For at least six years, they bore the pains and difficulties of life in exile.
“While the exiled pro-democracy activists kept the fire burning, their comrades at home sustained the pressure on the military brass hats. Among the latter are Olisa Agbakoba, Femi Falana, Abdul Oroh, Senator Shehu Sani, Governor Uba Sani, Chief Olu Falae, and other National Democratic Coalition leaders such as Chief Ayo Adebanjo and Chief Ayo Opadokun.
“The sacrifices they made, and the precious gift brought about by their selfless devotion can never be repaid. Neither shall it be forgotten.”
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