Knocks, Kudos as Tinubu Honours June 12 Heroes; Pardon for Ogoni Nine Sparks Debate

President Bola Tinubu’s Democracy Day address on June 12, 2025, was marked by a mix of commendations and criticisms over his list of honourees celebrating Nigeria’s pro-democracy heroes. The late Moshood Abiola, winner of the annulled 1993 election, was honoured alongside other activists, journalists, and scholars.

Tinubu elevated Nobel Laureate Prof Wole Soyinka and retired Gen Alani Akinrinade to Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger. Civil rights lawyer Femi Falana (SAN), Bishop Matthew Kukah, and Senator Shehu Sani were among those awarded Commander of the Order of the Niger.

The President also granted a presidential pardon and conferred honours on the Ogoni Nine, led by Ken Saro-Wiwa, executed in 1995 after protesting environmental degradation by oil companies.

Senator Shehu Sani criticized the exclusion of key Northern figures involved in the June 12 struggle, listing names such as Alhaji Balarabe Musa and Attahiru Jega. Many of these had received previous honours, but some notable activists were missing.

The Movement for the Survival of the Ogoni People praised Tinubu’s recognition of the Ogoni Nine but called for their full exoneration rather than a pardon, emphasizing that no legitimate crime was committed.

Former Ekiti Governor Dr Kayode Fayemi expressed dissatisfaction that the heroes of the underground Kudirat Radio were not honoured, despite their critical role in mobilizing opposition to military rule.

The President’s honours also included posthumous awards to figures like Kudirat Abiola, Prof Humphrey Nwosu, and Shehu Musa Yar’Adua, reinforcing the legacy of the June 12 struggle.

This ceremony is part of a broader series of national awards since 2022, highlighting ongoing efforts to commemorate Nigeria’s democratic pioneers amid debates on inclusivity.