Lagos SDP vows to uphold Abiola’s legacy

The Lagos State Chairman of the Social Democratic Party, Femi Olaniyi, has said the party remains committed to what he described as the “unfinished business” of the June 12, 1993, presidential election won by the late Chief MKO Abiola, calling for renewed commitment to credible elections, people-centred governance and national unity.

In a Democracy Day statement issued on Friday and titled “Completing Abiola’s Unfinished Business”, Olaniyi said June 12 remains a defining moment in Nigeria’s democratic history, when Nigerians, under the SDP platform, voted overwhelmingly for what he described as hope, justice and a better life.

He recalled that the 1993 election was more than a political contest, but a “covenant between leaders and the people,” adding that Nigerians at the time chose what he called “hope over fear” and rallied behind Abiola and the SDP’s “Farewell to Poverty” vision.

“June 12 was not just an election. It was a covenant between the leaders and the people. A covenant that the government must be just, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of the poor.

The Social Democratic Party of today is the custodian of that covenant. While others have changed names and platforms, SDP remains the party that June 12 was fought for. The ideals are the same: social justice, equity, and government for the people, by the people,” he said.

According to him, the SDP of today remains the ideological custodian of that historic mandate, insisting that while political parties may have changed names and structures over the years, the party continues to stand on the principles of social justice, equity and people-oriented governance.

Olaniyi outlined what he called three key commitments for the SDP in Lagos State: credible elections, people-centred governance, and national unity.

First, credible politics. We must make Lagos elections free, fair, and reflective of the people’s will. The blood and sacrifice of June 12 demand nothing less.

Secondly, Abiola’s ‘Farewell to Poverty’ must not be just a slogan. SDP Lagos will keep pushing for policies that put food on tables, create jobs for our youth, and make healthcare and education accessible.

“Third, unity. Abiola showed us that competence is more important than creed, and capacity is more important than clan. That spirit is what Lagos needs today,” he added.

Addressing young Nigerians, Olaniyi urged them to remain politically engaged, insisting that the sacrifices of 1993 demonstrated the power of collective civic action.

“To our youths: June 12 is your inheritance. Do not let anyone tell you that your vote does not count. The generation of 1993 proved that when Nigerians unite, we can change history,” he said.

He concluded by reaffirming the party’s commitment to the ideals of June 12, saying the SDP in Lagos would continue to pursue governance anchored on integrity and service.

“As we mark this day, let us pledge that Lagos SDP will continue to keep the flame of June 12 burning. Not with empty rhetoric, but with service, with integrity, and with a clear vision for a Lagos that works for all,” he said.

“May the souls of Chief MKO Abiola and all heroes of June 12 rest in peace. May their sacrifice never be in vain.”