President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has cancelled the previously scheduled nationwide broadcast to mark Nigeria’s 26th Democracy Day anniversary, opting instead to deliver his commemorative address before a joint session of the National Assembly.
This was disclosed in a statement issued by the director of information and public relations, Segun Imohiosen, who explained that the president’s shift in plans was due to his scheduled appearance before the legislature. Imohiosen stated that the address will be delivered live from the chambers of the National Assembly during a special session marking the anniversary.
According to the statement, all other official activities lined up to commemorate Democracy Day will proceed as earlier planned, with the exception of the traditional military parade, which has also been cancelled. The parade, a major feature of the Democracy Day celebrations, was initially expected to take place in Abuja on Wednesday, June 12.
The cancellation of the broadcast and parade has stirred varied reactions among Nigerians, especially given the symbolic significance of the day which commemorates the restoration of democratic rule in the country in 1999.
President Tinubu’s address from the National Assembly is expected to reflect on the nation’s democratic journey over the past two and a half decades, highlight achievements, and provide insights into the administration’s policy direction moving forward.
The 26th Democracy Day celebration comes at a time when the country is grappling with a range of socio-economic challenges, including inflation, insecurity, and labour unrest, which have intensified public scrutiny of government actions and communication.
More updates are expected following the president’s address and the outcome of proceedings at the joint session.