One of the most important advantages of history is that it affords us the opportunity to learn from it. A sage once said “those who do not learn from history will be condemned to re-live it.
1993 was an important reference point in our politics, our efforts at unity, our evolution and integration – in short our history. The bells of 1993 are still ringing. We lost a historic great opportunity to do the right thing for the peace and harmony of the nation.
The main purpose of this gathering, I believe, is to soberly recall and reconsider the events of 12 June, 1993 and their aftermath. When we are able to learn the correct lessons of those turbulent days, we must then resolve never to repeat those mistakes. We need not further dwell on who or what was responsible or apportion blame or who won and who lost. The whole country lost. Nobody won. The past is prologue.
I believe that in a democratic setting we must first and foremost respect the constitution. Our 1999 Constitution (as amended) lays down in clear terms on how to conduct the affairs of state. The Electoral Act, 2010 equally stipulates how to conduct democratic elections. However, as we all know, since 2003, elections have fallen far short of the laws in the Constitution and electoral acts.
Rules are made to be followed. It is no use trying to by-pass, ignore or outright break the rules for temporary convenience. Eg Umaru Yar’adua and Suntai’s illness.
Our task now is for all political parties to come together and resolve to work for free and fair elections.
This will be possible if
· INEC is properly funded and made truly independent by infusing fresh hands.
· Law enforcement agencies become neutral and not be agents of the government of the day and the governing party of the day.
· The judiciary reverts to its true role as independent and impartial in its conduct during electoral litigation.
General Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR
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