Democracy Day: Rotimi Agunsoye urges Nigerians to be patient with President Tinubu, pays tributes to the heroes of Democracy as Mandate Movement celebrates 25th anniversary


The former member House of Representatives, Kosofe Federal Constituency, Hon. (Prince) Rotimi Agunsoye, mni has made a passionate plea, to Nigerians to exercise patience and lend their support to the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as it works towards revamping the economy of the country.


The former lawmaker made this appeal during his welcome address at the 25th-anniversary celebration of the Mandate Movement held at Police College, Ikeja in commemoration of Democracy Day on June 12.

Speaking before a mammoth crowd of Mandate Movement supporters, Agunsoye highlighted the challenges facing the Nigerian economy, emphasizing that the era of the oil boom had passed. 


He, therefore, stressed the need for citizens to rally behind the government's efforts to diversify and strengthen the economy for a sustainable future.

"We want to use this opportunity to appeal to all Nigerians that there is a time and a season for everything under the heaven. A time to be happy, a time for sober reflection.

"As you all know the period of oil boom has gone. This is the time to persevere, to endure and be patient with the government of the day."

Agunsoye's appeal comes at a crucial time as Nigeria grapples with economic uncertainties and seeks innovative solutions to drive growth and development.

He commended the Mandate Movement for its commitment to promoting democracy and good governance in the country, urging its members to continue supporting President Tinubu and his administration in their quest for national development.

Also in his speech, Hon. Agunsoye paid tribute to the heroes of democracy, both deceased and living, acknowledging their immense contributions to the establishment and sustenance of democracy in Nigeria and expressing gratitude for their sacrifices and dedication.

Agunsoye disclosed that the significance of the 25th anniversary was dedicated to honouring the heroes of democracy, such as Chief M.K.O Abiola, whose unwavering commitment to democratic ideals and principles paved the way for the restoration of democracy in the country.


Amidst a large gathering of Mandate Movement supporters, the lawmaker emphasized the importance of recognizing and celebrating the legacy of these heroes, highlighting their pivotal role in shaping the country's history and inspiring future generations to uphold the values of democracy and good governance.

He, therefore, urged Nigerians to emulate the virtues of the heroes of democracy, demonstrating courage, resilience, and unwavering commitment to the democratic process.

"As we gather here today, it is important to recognize and honour the heroes of our democracy, both past and present, who have played a pivotal role in directing the trajectory of our nation's history. We dedicate this 25th anniversary of the Mandate Movement to those valiant individuals - dead or alive - who sacrificed and fought relentlessly for the enthronement of democracy, justice, and progress of our dear nation.

"From those who laid the foundation for our democracy to those who continue to champion the values we hold dear, today we pay tribute to their unwavering commitment and enduring legacy. Their sacrifices and contributions have paved the way for the Mandate Movement to stand firm as a beacon of hope and progress in our society.

"As we celebrate this momentous occasion together, let us remember and honour the heroes of our democracy, acknowledging their selfless dedication and unyielding spirit. Together, let us continue to uphold the values they fought for and strive to make a positive impact on our nation and our communities": the ex-lawmaker remarked.

Earlier in his address, Agunsoye while praising the Mandate Movement members for their support and dedication over the years, disclosed that the Movement was established 25 years ago with the singular mission of rallying support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu when he served as the Governor of Lagos State. 

He highlighted the pivotal role that the Mandate Movement has played in advancing the principles of democracy and promoting good leadership, particularly in the southwestern states of Nigeria.

He stressed that the group's commitment to supporting President Tinubu and advocating for democratic governance has been instrumental in shaping the political landscape of the region. 

"Taking you back on memory lane, the Mandate Movement was founded in 1999 with a sole mission - to rally support for our dear President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR during his time as Governor of Lagos State. Many years after its establishment, this group has remained steadfast and unflinching in its dedication to our esteemed leader, taking instruction and guidance from him with undiluted loyalty.

"Through our concerted efforts in the past 25 years of our existence, we have made a substantial impact on the sands of time of our political terrain, advancing the principles of democracy, accountability and the enthronement of good governance in our beloved country, particularly in Southwestern states. We have also been able to change the tenor of poor leadership and rewrite the history of our great country for good.

"One of the defining moments in the history of the Mandate Movement was when former President Olusegun Obasanjo deceitfully took control of all the southwestern states, except Lagos. In swift response to this challenge, the Mandate Movement played a remarkable role in winning back those states for the Progressives, showcasing our resilience, determination, and unwavering commitment to our cause.

"And during the 2023 presidential electioneering campaign that eventually ushered in our great leader as President, the Mandate Movement organized the mother-of-all rally that held the people of Lagos spellbound, demonstrating our influence and strength in the political sphere.

"Today, the Mandate Movement stands as the most dominant political group in Lagos and the southwestern part of Nigeria, a powerful testament to our enduring impact and significance in shaping the region's political landscape": Agunsoye stated.

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