Peter Obi, the Labour Party's presidential candidate, has urged Nigerians to draw inspiration from the June 12, 1993 elections and rectify what he refers to as the mistake of the February 25, 2023 election in order to restore and strengthen democracy. Nigeria commemorates June 12 as Democracy Day, a celebration of the Presidential Election held on that date in 1993, widely recognized as the country's most free and fair election, but was later nullified by the military dictatorship at the time.

According to him, we are currently experiencing a time where the fundamental principles of democracy are being undermined by widespread impunity and pervasive violence and bloodshed.

However, he expressed his unwavering commitment to a New Nigeria.

The complete statement reads as follows: "Today, we commemorate June 12, which is celebrated as Democracy Day in our beloved country. It is a momentous day that deserves recognition.

On this day in 1993, we, the people of Nigeria, unequivocally expressed our preference for genuine democracy. Despite being under military rule, we freely embraced a transparent electoral process. Our votes accurately reflected our collective will as a nation. Our choice on that day transcended ethnic, religious, and regional divisions."

The Nigerian people, as well as governments and individuals worldwide, acknowledged and praised our collective decision to elect the late Chief M.K.O Abiola as a deserving leader for our nation.

Hence, June 12 symbolizes our extensive shared path towards nation-building as a genuine democracy.

However, the present condition of our politics presents a contrasting narrative. Our democracy is facing profound challenges, while the fate of our nation remains uncertain and precarious.

As a nation, we are still grappling with numerous fundamental issues, for which we seek viable solutions. One of these pressing matters is the quest for a credible electoral system that can earn the trust, confidence, and faith of all Nigerians, just like the significance of June 12.

Hence, on the occasion of June 12, we should use this opportunity to rekindle the genuine virtues of a truly democratic nation. We accomplished that remarkable milestone on June 12, 1993.

In the spirit of June 12, it is crucial that we establish an electoral system that inspires the trust of the people. This acknowledgment is rooted in the principles and fundamental values of democracy, which hinge upon respecting the will of the people as expressed through their votes.

Unfortunately, we find ourselves in a period where the fundamental principles of democracy are being eroded by widespread impunity and rampant violence and bloodshed.

The growing lack of trust between leaders and Nigerians is becoming increasingly evident. The deficiencies in trust and effectiveness displayed in our previous elections vividly highlight this issue.

The significance of June 12 and the observance of Democracy Day should serve as a catalyst to motivate us to rectify the flaws in our recent elections. This represents the most effective approach to reinstating the confidence of our citizens in the future of our nation and the fulfillment of genuine democracy.

Nevertheless, I implore all of us not to lose hope in the inherent design of our democratic system to rectify itself.

"On a personal level, I remain dedicated and firmly believe in the possibility of a New Nigeria. Our vision for a nation characterized by fairness, justice, security, and peace is not an unattainable ideal. We are a nation abundantly blessed with human and natural resources. What we lack are selfless leaders who are committed to the collective national interest, sustainable development, and innovative thinking that provides every Nigerian, regardless of ethnicity, religion, or social status, the freedom to choose their place of residence, as well as safeguarding lives, property, and individual liberties in an orderly manner."