President Bola Tinubu has expressed sadness over the death of former lawmaker and prominent pro-democracy activist, Chief Ralph Obioha.
Obioha, who was also a businessman and statesman, was a founding member and leading figure of the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), which played a major role in the struggle for the restoration of democracy following the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election.
In a condolence message issued on Wednesday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu described Obioha as a patriot who made significant sacrifices in the fight for democratic governance in Nigeria.
The President commiserated with Obioha’s family, his community, the people of Abia State, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, members of NADECO and Nigerians mourning the deceased.
Tinubu said Obioha belonged to a generation of Nigerians who responded to the demands of the moment during some of the most challenging periods in the country’s political history.
“As a founding member and prominent leader of NADECO, Chief Obioha stood firmly on the side of democratic governance during the struggle for the restoration of democracy following the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election,” the President said.
He noted that Obioha paid a considerable personal price for his involvement in the pro-democracy movement but remained committed to his principles despite the pressure and difficulties of the period.
“Despite the challenges and pressures of those difficult years, he remained steadfast in his belief that Nigeria’s destiny was inseparable from democracy, justice, constitutionalism and the right of the Nigerian people to choose their leaders,” Tinubu said.
The President said the sacrifices and contributions of Nigerians who stood up for democratic values during difficult periods must not be forgotten.
He prayed for the repose of Obioha’s soul and urged his family and associates to take solace in his contributions to Nigeria’s democratic development.
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