The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has congratulated recipients of the recently announced national honours conferred by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in commemoration of June 12 Democracy day, describing the recognition as a welcome departure from the tradition of honouring politicians and individuals with questionable public records.
In a statement signed by its Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, HEDA particularly praised the selection of Nobel Laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka, human rights lawyer Femi Falana (SAN), environmental and minority rights advocate Ledum Mitee, investigative journalism trailblazer Dapo Olorunyomi, and the posthumously honoured Ogoni Nine, led by the late Ken Saro-Wiwa.
The civil group described the decision to honour these individuals as a bold move that places integrity and sacrifice at the centre of national recognition.
According to Suraju, the inclusion of names such as Mrs. Kudirat Abiola, Ken Saro- Wiwa, and his fellow Ogoni activists, who were also granted full presidential pardons, sends a powerful message about justice, national memory, and the enduring impact of principled activism. It finally exonerated Ken Saro Wiwa and his comrades of the trump up charges for which they were gruesomely murdered.
He further commended the Tinubu administration for acknowledging individuals whose contributions have helped shape Nigeria’s democracy, defended human rights, and stood firm in the face of repression.
“President Tinubu’s decision marks a shift from a long-standing culture of rewarding only political actors or controversial figures. By recognising those whose lives have been dedicated to the defence of truth, justice and public interest, the government has taken a significant step toward redefining national values.” Suraju noted.
HEDA urged the federal government to back these honours with concrete policy actions that uphold justice, press freedom, environmental protection, and the rights of citizens. According to the civil society organisation, symbolic gestures must translate into institutional reforms that reflect the ideals of those being celebrated.
While congratulating all recipients, HEDA charged them to receive the recognition as additional call to duty in honour of the country. The organization reaffirmed its commitment to promoting accountability, good governance, and social justice. The group described the honoured individuals as shining examples of ethical leadership, whose lives and work offer guidance for future generation
