Federal government has declared Monday, June 12, as a public holiday in commemoration of Democracy Day.

In a statement on Thursday, Oluwatoyin Akinlade, permanent secretary of the ministry of interior, said the country’s democratic journey has experienced stormy and smooth paths.

“But the ship of state, its institutions and most importantly, the Nigerian people have remained steadfast on the tenets of democratic governance,” she said.

“On this memorable occasion therefore, Nigerians and friends of Nigeria are invited to appreciate the progress that has been made, celebrate the milestones covered and look forward to a better future for the country’s democracy.”

In June 2018, former President Muhammadu Buhari declared June 12 as the new date for the celebration of Nigeria’s democracy.

The decision was to posthumously honour MKO Abiola, presumed winner of the June 12, 1993 presidential election.

Before the new date, Democracy Day was celebrated annually on May 29.

The Cable