Former National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) activist and pro-democracy figure, Chief Ralph Obioha, has rejected a national honour awarded to him by President Bola Tinubu during the 2026 Democracy Day event.
Obioha, a former lawmaker who served in the National Assembly between 1979 and 1983, said he appreciated the recognition from the Federal Government but could not accept it under the current situation in the country.
He linked his decision to the continued detention of IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu and the wider security problems affecting Nigeria.
The activist said his participation in the June 12 pro-democracy struggle was based on the belief in justice, freedom, rule of law, and protection of human rights.
He noted that these values shaped the movement against military rule.
According to him, a core part of the democratic struggle was the right to speak freely and hold different views without fear.
He said this principle should remain central in any democratic system.
Obioha expressed concern that accepting the honour while Nnamdi Kanu remains in detention would conflict with his personal convictions about justice and fair treatment under the law.
He called for steps that could lead to national healing and stronger respect for rights.
He also raised alarm over worsening insecurity across the country, including cases of kidnapping, terrorism, and armed violence, which he said continue to affect many communities and families.
While explaining his position, he made it clear that his action was not directed against President Bola Tinubu or the idea of national honours.
He said it was a personal decision tied to his beliefs from the democracy struggle he took part in under National Democratic Coalition.
