By Mercy Aikoye
President Bola Tinubu has conferred posthumous national honours on several individuals, including the late Alhaji Kudirat Abiola, wife of the winner of the June 12, 1993 general elections. This ceremony commemorates the 26th uninterrupted democratic rule in Nigeria.
The list of beneficiaries includes notable figures such as Shehu Musa Yar’Adua, Professor Humphrey Nwosu, Alhaji Balarabe Musa, Pa. Alfred Rewane, Chima Ubani, Dr. Beko Ransome-Kuti, and Chief Bola Ige, among others. President Tinubu announced the conferment of these honours amidst cheers from members of the National Assembly.
President Tinubu conferred the national honour of CFR on Kudirat Abiola, Shehu Musa Yar’Adua (GCFR), Alhaji Balarabe Musa (CFR), Pa. Alfred Rewane (CFR), and Chief Bola Ige (CFR), among others. Other notable individuals who received honours include Professor Wole Soyinka (GCON), Professor Olatunji Dare (CON), and Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah (CON).
The President also conferred national honours on journalists and activists, including Kunle Ajibade (OON), Nosa Igiebor (OON), Dapo Olorunyomi (OON), and Bayo Onanuga (CON). These individuals have made significant contributions to the country’s democratic journey.
President Tinubu specially recognized Sam Amuka Pemu, a legendary journalist and publisher, by conferring the national honour of CON on him as he marks his 90th birthday. This gesture highlights the President’s appreciation for Pemu’s lifetime contributions to journalism.
The President announced that he would be exercising his powers under the prerogative of mercy to grant a full pardon to the Ogoni Nine, including Ken Saro-Wiwa, and others whose names would be announced later. This move is seen as a significant step towards healing and reconciliation.
Earlier, President Tinubu decorated the four presiding officers of the National Assembly with the National Honours earlier conferred upon them. They include President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio (GCON), Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, Deputy Senate President, Senator Jibrin Ibrahim Barau (CFR), and Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu (CFR).
The President tasked lawmakers and politicians to rededicate themselves to the ideals of June 12, including freedom, transparent and accountable government, social justice, active citizen participation, and a just society where no one is oppressed. This call to action emphasizes the importance of upholding democratic values and promoting the welfare of all citizens.
