Award: Akpata humbly received honour as  Democracy Icon

Yesterday, I had the privilege of attending the Leadership Scorecard Public Lecture on Democracy in Africa, honouring the pivotal role played by Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar, GCFR, in ushering in Nigeria’s democratic renaissance.

The event, chaired by Senator Bukola Saraki, who was very ably represented, was also graced by H.E. Prof. Babagana Zulum, Governor of Borno State, and His Eminence, John Cardinal Onaiyekan, and featured a thought-provoking keynote address delivered by Prof. P.L.O. Lumumba, reflecting on 25 years of democracy in Nigeria.

Gen. Abubakar’s leadership in 1999 paved the way for our nation’s democratic journey, and his unwavering commitment to nurturing this precious legacy has been a constant guiding force during in all of these 25 years.

I recall that it was Gen. Abubakar who appointed my late uncle, Hon. Justice Ephraim Akpata, as the Chairman of what was then known as the National Electoral Commission (NEC).

My uncle, a staunch believer in democratic principles, accepted the appointment on the condition that the commission’s independence be enshrined in its name, thus leading to the renaming of the Commission as the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). Gen. Abubakar’s willingness to accept this condition exemplified his commitment to the transition process.

During the event, I was humbled to receive an award as a “Democracy Icon,” in recognition of my efforts in upholding democratic tenets during my tenure as the President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA).

Together, we can build a stronger, more inclusive, and more prosperous Nigeria, where the voices of the people are heard and their rights are protected.