Coalition for A Better Nigeria says plans have begun to mark the 27th anniversary of Epetedo declaration by the late MKO Abiola on June 11.

The National Coordinator of the coalition, Bamiji Awa, disclosed this in a statement on Monday in Lagos.

Mr Awa explained that the group would celebrate the anniversary at the old Epetedo Hall (Eleganza Sports Centre), Lagos Island.

According to him, discussions will centre on ‘2023 General Election: How to Avoid a Repeat of 1983 and 1993 Post Election Violence.’

He disclosed that speakers at the commemoration would include Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila, Wale Okediran, Buba Marwa, and Biyi Durojaiye.

Bola Tinubu, National Leader of the All Progressives Congress and the South-West governors, will also attend.

Mr Awa added, “Discussants are Sen. Tokunbo Afikuyomi, Chief Jumoke Ogunkeyede (JMK), Abiodun Sowumi and Segun Mayegun, former President, National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS). The keynote address is to be delivered by the Vice President, Prof Yemi Osinbajo.

“Royal Fathers of the day are Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III, and Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi Ojaja II, Sultan of Sokoto and Ooni of Ife, respectively.”

Mr Awa, however, said COVID-19 protocols would be strictly adhered to as the majority of Nigerians would be able to watch the event from their homes.

Mr Abiola, the acclaimed winner of the June 12, 1993, presidential election annulled by the military dictator Ibrahim Babangida, declared himself president at Epetedo and was arrested by another military dictator, Sani Abacha.

President Muhammadu Buhari in 2019 signed a bill endorsing June 12 as Nigeria’s official Democracy Day (previously May 29).

(NAN)