By; Olisa Maduagwu Jr.
Abuja, Nigeria.
In the annals of Nigeria's political history, the Third Republic stands as a poignant chapter - one marked by hope, dashed dreams, and an enduring quest for justice. Established in 1992, the Third Republic was the product of a transition orchestrated by then-military President Ibrahim Babangida. It ushered in a National Assembly composed of 91 senators and 593 members of the House of Representatives, all elected through the Option A4 system, widely regarded as the most transparent electoral process in Nigeria's history. Yet, this nascent democracy was abruptly truncated in November 1993, just 11 months into its tenure, when the military annulled the June 12 presidential election, a decision that reverberated through the nation's political landscape.
The annulment of the June 12 election, which saw Chief MKO Abiola emerge as the presumed winner, led to widespread protests and political unrest. The military's intervention not only undermined the democratic process but also left in its wake a generation of lawmakers whose aspirations were abruptly halted. These individuals, who had invested their time, resources, and hopes into serving their constituencies, found themselves without recompense or recognition.
While Chief MKO Abiola and his running mate, Ambassador Babagana Kingibe, have been posthumously honored and compensated for their roles in the aborted transition, the same cannot be said for the lawmakers who were directly elected by the people. Many of these former legislators, who campaigned vigorously and won elections adjudged to be the freest and fairest, have since passed away without receiving their entitlements. As reported, over 250 of the original 593 members have died, leaving their families to grapple with the injustice of unfulfilled promises .
The situation is particularly poignant for those who remain. These individuals, now advanced in age and often in declining health, continue to advocate for the recognition and compensation they rightfully deserve. Their plight is not just about financial remuneration; it is about justice, dignity, and the acknowledgment of their service to the nation.
Among those who served in the Third Republic is President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who was a senator under the defunct Social Democratic Party (SDP) during that period. As a beneficiary of the democratic process, President Tinubu is uniquely positioned to address this long-standing grievance. His leadership could pave the way for the recognition and compensation of these former lawmakers, many of whom are his contemporaries and colleagues from over three decades ago.
The call for justice is not merely a plea for financial compensation but a demand for the restoration of dignity to those who served the nation with integrity and commitment. It is a call to honor the sacrifices made by individuals who believed in the promise of democracy and who continue to hope for its fulfillment.
In summary, the unfinished business of the Third Republic is a testament to the resilience of Nigeria's democratic spirit. It is a reminder that the journey toward justice and recognition is ongoing and that the nation must not forget those who laid down their aspirations in the service of the people. As we reflect on this chapter of our history, let us strive to ensure that the lessons learned lead to a more just and inclusive future for all Nigerians.
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