CDHR wants spirit of June 12 upheld, commends Tinubu for honouring comrades

Committee for the Defence of Human Right CDHR has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for honouring June 12 heroes and fellow comrades in recognition of their invaluable contributions to the struggle for democracy and social justice in Nigeria.

CDHR in a statement released in Abuja Thursday jointly signed by Dr. Prince Kehinde Taiga and Comrade Gerald O Katchy, National President and Secretary respectively also called on the president to uphold the true spirit of June 12 which they described as a legacy of Resistance against authoritarianism, Advocacy for free, fair, and credible elections, Protection of human rights, Governance rooted in justice, equity, and transparency.

According to the statement, “On this symbolic June 12 Democracy Day, we, members of The Committee for the Defence of Human Right CDHR and affiliates of the Nigerian pro-democracy and human rights movement, welcome the conferment of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) on several of our illustrious comrades by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (PBAT) in recognition of their invaluable contributions to the struggle for democracy and social justice in Nigeria.

“Among those honoured today are: Dr. Beko Ransome-Kuti (Posthumous) – a fearless voice of resistance and lifelong defender of human rights and our pioneer President Emeritus.

“Prof. Festus Iyayi (Posthumous) – scholar, unionist, and martyr for social justice. Prof. Julius Ihonvbere – academic and committed advocate of democratic governance. Barr. Femi Falana (SAN) – tireless legal activist and defender of the oppressed.

“This gesture is a long-overdue acknowledgment of the critical role played by these individuals—and countless others—in shaping the path toward Nigeria’s democratic awakening.

“Their names are etched in the conscience of our nation not just as activists, but as patriots whose sacrifices made the freedoms we now enjoy possible.

“While we accept this honour with gratitude, we are equally compelled to remind President Tinubu and all public office holders that June 12 is not merely a date—it is a legacy. A legacy of: Resistance against authoritarianism, Advocacy for free, fair, and credible elections, Protection of human rights, Governance rooted in justice, equity, and transparency.

“We have continued to see a sharp disconnect from this government with the citizens of Nigeria, a situation where our President choose to address the National Assembly instead of Nigerians.

“We therefore call on President Tinubu, himself a beneficiary of the June 12 movement, to lead with courage, accountability, and vision.

“Let the legacy of June 12 reflect in policies that uplift the poor, protect the rights of all citizens, end impunity, and secure the future for generations to come.

“We dedicate this moment to all our fallen and living comrades—and we recommit ourselves to the enduring struggle for a Nigeria that truly works for all” the statement concluded.