12th June, 2024
Former members of the House of Representatives from the Third Republic have made a plea to President Bola Tinubu, urging him to prevent the champions of democracy from languishing in poverty.
In a statement issued by Mr. John Fasogbon, spokesperson for the ex-legislators, on Wednesday in Osogbo, the group stressed the major role played by the Third Republic, under the leadership of the late MKO Abiola, in birthing Nigeria’s current democratic era.
Fasogbon expressed deep concern over the dire financial situation faced by those who fought for the democracy enjoyed today, noting their expulsion from office without any post-service benefits by the military regime.
“We, members of House of Representatives in the Third Republic, contested and won our elections, which was adjudged as the most free and fair in the history of the country.
“Unfortunately, after we were swore in, we were sacked by the Military junta without any benefits.
“Today, June 12 is being celebrated with the heroes of democracy dying in anguish penury.
“Many of us have died without any benefits, while those of us alive are living in poverty.
“In the spirit of national reconciliation, we appeal to the president to assist us in the payment of our entitlements between 1992-1993, when we are at Federal House of Representatives,” he stated.
In a gesture of national unity, the group implored the president to address their outstanding entitlements dating back to their tenure from 1992 to 1993. Fasogbon, who represented Ife Federal Central Constituency, appealed for recognition akin to the posthumous honors accorded to Chief MKO Abiola and his running mate, Baba Gana Kingibe, by President Muhammadu Buhari.
He extended congratulations to the president and the nation on the milestone of 25 years of uninterrupted democracy.