Nobel Laureate, Prof. Wole Soyinka, will chair the 32nd anniversary celebration of the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), an organisation that played a major role in Nigeria’s pro-democracy struggle.
According to a statement, the event is scheduled for May 20 at the Shell Hall of the MUSON Centre, Onikan, Lagos, beginning at 11am. The programme will include the public presentation of a memoir by NADECO’s General Secretary, Ayo Opadokun, as well as the recognition of individuals and institutions that contributed to the country’s return to democratic rule.
The anniversary is organised to mark NADECO’s formation and its involvement in the struggle for the actualisation of the June 12, 1993 presidential mandate and the restoration of civilian governance.
Former Minister of Defence, Theophilus Danjuma, will serve as chief launcher, while the Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Rasheed Ladoja, will attend as royal father of the day.
Opadokun’s memoir, titled The NADECO Story, documents the coalition’s history, ideology, challenges, and milestones. He described the anniversary as a celebration of resilience and national dignity, adding that the contributions of pro-democracy advocates should not be forgotten.
He said the event is intended to honour individuals and institutions that supported the democratic struggle during the military era between 1993 and 1996. Award recipients include six media organisations, journalists, human rights activists, civil society groups, academics, professionals, business leaders, retired military officers, and the 54 signatories of NADECO’s inaugural communiqué in May 1994 — among them President Bola Tinubu.
Posthumous recognitions will also be given to Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola and his wife, Kudirat Abiola, along with other NADECO leaders such as Adekunle Ajasin, Abraham Adesanya, and Anthony Enahoro.
Reflecting on Nigeria’s democratic journey, Opadokun acknowledged that challenges remain but maintained that civilian rule represents progress compared to military dictatorship. He expressed optimism about the country’s future, stating that Nigeria’s democracy, though imperfect, continues to evolve and improve.
