"Abiola's Death Was Painful" - Atiku Abubakar

Former Vice President of Nigeria, Atiku Abubakar joined many Nigerians to commemorate the annulled June 12 1993 elections. In a statement released today, Atiku described June 12 as "a shining light, a reminder of what is possible- a united Nigeria.

"On ‪#‎June12‬, 1993, Nigeria was united in one cause, to defeat tyranny through democracy. We all believed. After 23 years, #June12 still remains a shining light, a reminder of what is possible - a united Nigeria. 

The integrity of the #June12 electoral process also shows that we Nigerians can achieve great things, if we are united. For many of us who worked with Chief M.K.O. Abiola, his death was painful, but it paved the way for enduring democracy. Our democracy today, is MKO Abiola's legacy. But we must grow beyond just democracy - our country must work. 

We must reform our country - restructure our federation for peace, growth and prosperity. We must also fix our political system. We must embrace reforms, and base our democracy on equity and good governance, which helps every Nigerian feel safe and secure. #June12 was a victory for Nigeria. It was because we knew we could be better. We can actually achieve that dream if we all work together."