Here is a roundup of some Nigerian newspaper headlines, accompanied by our advocacy-driven demands for government action in addressing citizens’ concerns.

1. Daily Trust: What June 12 Means to Us – Citizens

As Nigeria marks another Democracy Day today, 12 June, Daily Trust is reporting that many citizens have expressed dissatisfaction with the government, feeling that political institutions do not effectively represent their interests.

Our Take: As Nigeria marks 26 years of uninterrupted democracy, the President Bola Tinubu government must renew its commitment to genuine democratic governance by addressing citizens’ economic hardships, upholding the rule of law, ensuring institutional transparency, and creating spaces where the voices of everyday Nigerians are not only heard but meaningfully reflected in policy decisions.

2. Vanguard: 32 Years After June 12: Democracy Declining Under APC – ACF, PDP, Afenifere, Ohaneze, Others

As Nigerians celebrate 32 years after the annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election won by Moshood Kashimawo Abiola, concerns have been raised over the country’s democratic institutions, including allegations of executive overreach, judicial interference, and marginalisation of local governance structures, concluding that democracy in Nigeria was endangered.

Our Take: It is time for President Tinubu to demonstrate true democratic leadership by addressing the growing concerns over insecurity, economic hardship, and shrinking civic space, and by strengthening institutions to uphold the rule of law, safeguard citizens’ rights, and ensure accountability across all arms of government, if his administration is to honour the legacy of 12 June and restore public confidence in Nigeria’s democracy.

3. Punch: Democracy Day: Nigeria’s Cybercrimes Act threatens free speech, needs reform -Envoys

Heads of Mission from the United States, United Kingdom, Finland, Norway, and Canada have jointly called on the Federal Government to reform the 2015 Cybercrimes Act, warning that its misuse threatens freedom of expression and hampers the country’s digital and economic potential.

Our Take: President Tinubu, along with the National Assembly, must take immediate steps to reform the Cybercrimes Act 2015 to ensure it upholds the constitutional right to freedom of expression. A democracy cannot thrive where citizens live in fear of legal retaliation for voicing their opinions; safeguarding this freedom is essential to strengthening Nigeria’s democratic institutions and promoting digital and economic growth.