Marking the 2025 Democracy Day celebration, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu delivered a deeply symbolic message of justice, remembrance, and reconciliation—honouring Nigeria’s fallen democratic heroes and granting long-awaited clemency to the famed Ogoni Nine.
In a solemn and emotionally charged ceremony at the National Assembly, President Tinubu posthumously conferred the Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR) on the late Kudirat Abiola, hailing her as “a heroine of the June 12 struggle” and a fearless advocate whose sacrifice remains etched in the nation’s democratic memory.
Beyond Kudirat, the President rolled out an unprecedented list of national honours to both fallen and living icons of Nigeria’s pro-democracy movement—turning the national spotlight toward those whose courage paved the way for civilian rule.
Posthumous honours were awarded to:
Gen. Shehu Musa Yar’Adua (GCFR)
Prof. Humphrey Nwosu (CON)
Rear Admiral Ndubuisi Kanu (CON)
Pa Alfred Rewane (CFR)
Alhaji Balarabe Musa (CFR)
Bagauda Kaltho (OON)
Dr. Beko Ransome-Kuti (CON)
Chief Bola Ige (CFR)
Pa Reuben Fasoranti (CFR)
Among the living recipients were:
Prof. Wole Soyinka (GCON)
Femi Falana, SAN (CON)
Senator Shehu Sani (CON)
Kunle Ajibade (OON)
Dapo Olorunyomi (OON)
Barrister Ledum Mitee (CON)
Governor Uba Sani (CON)
Celebrated journalist and publisher Uncle Sam Amuka-Pemu was also honoured with the Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) as he approaches his 90th birthday on June 13—an enduring symbol of press freedom and responsible journalism.
In what observers described as a historic act of national healing, Tinubu posthumously honoured Ken Saro-Wiwa and the other members of the Ogoni Nine, who were executed under the Abacha regime in 1995. Each member was conferred with either CON or OON honours. More significantly, the President granted them a full presidential pardon, describing the act as a step towards reconciliation, dignity, and closure. The pardon, he said, will be formally ratified by the National Council of State.
“This is not just about honouring the past,” President Tinubu declared. “It is about inspiring the present and securing the future.”
The ceremony also included formal decorations for leaders of the 10th National Assembly previously honoured in 2024: Senate President Godswill Akpabio (GCON), Speaker of the House, Dr. Tajudeen Abbas (GCON), Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau (CFR) and Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu (CFR)
Reflecting on the legacy of June 12, Tinubu described it as “the soul of Nigeria’s democratic identity,” urging citizens to remain steadfast in safeguarding democratic values. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to inclusive governance, justice, and the protection of democratic institutions.
“As we honour the lives lost and the dreams they carried, let us recommit to a nation built on equity, liberty, and progress,” the President said. “Let their sacrifice not be in vain.”
