On Friday, the Federal Government announced that the 2023 June 12 Democracy Day celebration would be relatively low-key.
Senator George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), announced this during a press conference.
He explained that the low-key celebration is in response to the recent presidential inauguration on May 29, which was marked by grand celebrations.
Akume detailed the schedule;
The activities lined up for celebration are a press briefing and the president’s address to the nation at 7 am on Monday.
The SGF further explained that Democracy Day has been moved from its original date, May 29, to June 12, to honor those who’ve fought for democracy in Nigeria since 1999.
However, May 29 remains the date of handing over or taking over of power, and this happens every four years according to the Nigerian Constitution, he clarified.
Because of the magnitude of the recent inauguration, Akume stated that the 2023 June 12 Democracy Day will be marked by two main events: a press conference and a presidential broadcast on Monday at 7 a.m.
To mark the occasion, the SGF emphasized the importance of reflecting on the nation’s progress, the benefits of democracy, and areas for improvement.
It is in light of this that the theme of this year’s Democracy celebration is ‘Hope Reassured’, he declared.
Finally, before, during, and after the celebration, Akume reassured Nigerians of the government’s commitment to their safety.
He stated that adequate safeguards had been put in place to ensure this.