President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has awarded posthumous national honours to Kudirat Abiola, wife of late Chief MKO Abiola, and dozens of other prominent pro-democracy activists as part of Nigeria’s 2025 Democracy Day celebrations.
The announcement was made during a joint session of the National Assembly on Thursday, June 12, 2025. President Tinubu said the honours were in recognition of the “bravery, sacrifices, and contributions” made by individuals who fought for Nigeria’s democratic freedom, especially during and after the 1993 presidential elections.
“As we mark 26 years of unbroken democracy, it is right to honour those who braved all odds to ensure democratic stability in our country,” Tinubu declared.
Key Recipients and National Honours Awarded
Kudirat Abiola was conferred with the Commander of the Federal Republic (CFR) in recognition of her sacrifice for Nigeria’s democracy.
Professor Humphrey Nwosu, who chaired the National Electoral Commission (NEC) during the historic June 12, 1993, elections, was also posthumously awarded Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON).
Full List of Democracy Heroes Honoured by Tinubu in 2025
Posthumous Awards and Living Recipients:
-
Shehu Musa Yar’Adua (GCFR)
-
Rear Admiral Ndubuisi Kanu (CON)
-
Alhaji Balarabe Musa (CFR)
-
Pa Alfred Rewane (CFR)
-
Dr. Beko Ransome-Kuti (CON)
-
Chief Frank Kokori (CON)
-
Fredrick Fasehun (CON)
-
Chief Bola Ige (CFR)
-
Pa Reuben Fasoranti (CFR)
-
Senator Ayo Fasanmi (CON)
-
Dr. Nurudeen Olowopopo (CON)
Others include:
-
Prof. Wole Soyinka (GCON)
-
Prof. Olatunji Dare (CON)
-
Kunle Ajibade (OON)
-
Dapo Olorunyomi (OON)
-
Bayo Onanuga (CON)
-
Femi Falana, SAN (CON)
-
Senator Shehu Sani (CON)
-
Governor Uba Sani (CON)
-
Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah (CON)
-
Odia Ofeimun (CON)
-
Barr. Ledum Mitee (CON)
-
Hon. Labaran Maku (OON)
-
Uncle Sam Amuka Pemu (CON)
Ken Saro-Wiwa and Ogoni Nine Honoured and Pardoned
In a historic move, Ken Saro-Wiwa and other members of the Ogoni Nine—executed in 1995—were posthumously honoured and granted full state pardons. This includes:
-
Saturday Dobee (OON)
-
Nordu Eawo (OON)
-
Daniel Gbooko (OON)
-
Paul Levera (OON)
-
Felix Nuate (OON)
-
Baribor Bera (OON)
-
Barinem Kiobel (OON)
-
John Kpuine (OON)
President Tinubu also noted that more names would be announced in collaboration with the National Council of State.
National Unity and Recognition of Democratic Struggle
These honours not only celebrate individual sacrifice but also serve as a reminder of Nigeria’s turbulent path toward democracy. Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to uphold democratic values and honour those who laid its foundation.
Leave a Reply