Emmanuel Thomas
June 11, 2015 – The Afenifere Renewal Group (ARG) has described the “June 12 struggle” as an albatross for those who betrayed its cause, particularly Ambassador Babagana Kingibe.
In a statement signed by its publicity secretary, Kunle Famoriyo, the group said Kingibe, who, some days ago, reportedly wants the “ghost of June 12 laid to rest” on account of APC’s victory in the last presidential election, has an antecedent that disqualifies him “from commenting on or identifying with the success of a democratic campaign.”
“As the vice-president elect, Kingibe ought to be the captain of the ship for the June 12 struggle when Chief M.K.O Abiola was arrested but he was the first to jump ship,” the statement said.
“ARG understands that Kingibe may have missed being in the corridors of power and may be itching to have a voice that could be reckoned with as credible – therefore, his wish to have June 12 ‘laid to rest’”.
“Kingibe’s undemocratic and treacherous antecedents disqualify him from commenting on or identifying with the success of a democratic campaign. Instead of wishing that June 12 be forgotten, it is better for him to retrace his steps and purge himself of ethnocentric perspectives.”
“June 12 will forever be a watershed in Nigeria’s annals because it endued Nigerians with a consciousness that the power of the people is greater than the people in power. It has, over the years, evolved into an unwritten code of judgement against those who monger power to nurture selfish ambitions, suppress the people, or enhance ethnocentric bigotry. June 12 ensured that such people will always have their place in a dishonourable section of history.”
The statement said June 12 successfully hoisted the flag of democracy in Nigeria and each positive step that Nigeria takes towards good governance, true federalism, and concrete nationhood will continue to haunt those who played their part in subverting its cause.
ARG urges the new administration to formally recognise the June 12 mandate and honour those who lost their lives to that struggle.
