The Federal Government has announced thatJune 12this year will not be marked as a public holiday following its declaration as the new Democracy Day.

In a tweeton Friday, the Federal Government said while it will not be marked this year,June 12“in future years will replace May 29th as a national public holiday in celebration of Nigeria Democracy Day.”

The President had made the declarationon Wednesday, in honour of the late businessman and politician, Moshood Abiola, who ran for presidency on June 12, 1993.

He also conferred a posthumous GCFR title on him as the presumed winner of the election.

In a tweet on his official handle, he explained whyJune 12will replace May 29. He noted thatJune 12is a more symbolic day.

“Dear Nigerians, I am delighted to announce that, after due consultations, the Federal Government has decided that henceforth,June 12will be celebrated as Democracy Day.

“We have also decided to award posthumously the highest Honour in the land, GCFR, to Chief MKO Abiola.

“In the view of Nigerians, as shared by this Administration, June 12, 1993, was and is far more symbolic of Democracy in the Nigerian context than May 29, or evenOctober 1,” his tweet read. (Channels TV)