A coalition of concerned citizens from Ondo State, pro-democracy activists, and patriotic youths across Nigeria has made a passionate appeal to President Bola Tinubu to posthumously honour the late Chief Adebayo Adefarati, describing him as a “forgotten hero of democracy” who played a critical role in the nation’s transition from military rule.
In an open letter addressed to the President and made available to the press, the group expressed disappointment over the conspicuous omission of Adefarati’s name from the list of heroes celebrated during this year’s Democracy Day, June 12. They described the oversight as a painful injustice to a man who stood shoulder-to-shoulder with other NADECO leaders in defiance of military tyranny.
The late Chief Adefarati, who served as Governor of Ondo State from 1999 to 2003, was praised for his unwavering commitment to democratic ideals, even in the face of threats and persecution under the regime of General Sani Abacha.
The letter detailed Adefarati’s legacy, highlighting his landmark policies such as free education, free healthcare, and the establishment of OSOPADEC—an initiative that has become a benchmark for oil-producing area development in Nigeria.
“Adefarati was not a passive observer but a committed actor in the democratic trenches,” the letter read. “To ignore his sacrifice is to deny a vital chapter in Nigeria’s struggle for freedom.”
The appeal comes at a time when national attention is focused on the true heroes of the June 12 movement.
The group emphasized that acknowledging Adefarati’s contributions would reflect President Tinubu’s own long-standing commitment to justice, equity, and historical truth.
They urged the Federal Government to consider posthumous national honours or the naming of a federal institution or monument after Chief Adefarati, describing such action as “a bold step toward preserving the memory of those who laid the foundation of Nigeria’s democratic rebirth.”
The letter was signed by Pius Ade Babaleye Pab on behalf of the Concerned Citizens of Ondo State, Pro-Democracy Advocates, Youths, and Patriots of Nigeria.
As debate continues to swell around the inclusiveness of the June 12 honours list, this renewed call places fresh moral responsibility on the Tinubu administration to ensure that no hero of democracy is left behind.
