Why President Bola Tinubu Cancelled The Democracy Day Broadcast

For the first time since June 12 was officially recognized as Nigeria’s Democracy Day, the traditional military parade and early morning presidential address were scrapped. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration opted for a different format to mark this year’s celebration, one that has sparked both curiosity and critique across the country.

So why the break from tradition? What does this mean for Nigerian democracy, and what is the enduring significance of June 12?

Let’s break it all down.

What Was Cancelled and Why?

This year, two major events were noticeably absent from the Democracy Day itinerary:

• The 7:00 a.m. nationwide presidential broadcast, which has historically set the tone for the day.
• The military and civil parade, typically held at Eagle Square with displays of national pride, service, and unity.

Instead, President Tinubu announced that he would deliver his address at a joint sitting of the National Assembly at noon, coinciding with the 25th anniversary of Nigeria’s 4th Republic and legislative democracy. The shift was presented as a symbolic realignment—emphasizing institutional reform and the centrality of the legislature in Nigeria’s democratic journey.

However, no detailed explanation was given for the cancellation of the parade, raising speculation about possible security, financial, or political motivations.

Reactions from the Public and Civil Society

While the government described the move as a scheduling shift, civil society groups and commentators saw it differently. The absence of a parade was interpreted by some as a missed opportunity to celebrate democratic resilience, while others viewed it as an honest reflection of growing public disillusionment.

Activist lawyer Deji Adeyanju declared the day “a tragedy,” arguing that Nigerian democracy now serves the elite while the masses suffer under economic pressure.

The coalition group #EndBadGovernance called for protests across major cities, condemning rising poverty, hunger, and insecurity, particularly in light of the fuel subsidy removal that has dramatically increased the cost of living for average Nigerians.

The Enduring Legacy of June 12

June 12 is not just another date—it’s a profound moment in Nigeria’s democratic journey. It marks the annulled 1993 presidential election, widely regarded as the freest and fairest in Nigeria’s history, presumably won by Chief M.K.O. Abiola.

For years, pro-democracy activists and civil society demanded national recognition of June 12’s significance. It wasn’t until 2018 that former President Muhammadu Buhari officially declared it Nigeria’s new Democracy Day, replacing May 29.

The move was widely praised and seen as a correction of historical injustice. Tinubu, who was part of the pro-democracy struggle in the 1990s, has often emphasized the importance of June 12—but this year’s decision has raised questions about whether the spirit of the day is being maintained or diluted.

President Tinubu’s decision to cancel the Democracy Day parade may have been strategic, practical, or symbolic—or all three. But it also raises deeper questions about the state of Nigeria’s democracy: Is it evolving or eroding?

June 12 will always be more than a date. It is a reminder of the people’s will, the sacrifices of pro-democracy heroes, and the unfulfilled promises of governance. As Nigeria moves forward, the hope is that future commemorations will not only reflect institutional rituals but also renew faith in a democracy that works for all.