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BY ABU-SATAR HAMED
FCT, ABUJA, NIGERIA – A retired Nigerian Army officer, Col. Abubakar D. Umar (Rtd), has issued a heartfelt tribute to the unsung heroes of the June 12th struggle who were overlooked in the recent National Honours awarded by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
In a reflective piece that gone viral on social media; Umar expressed his deep feelings about being singled out for the prestigious Commander of the Federal Republic (CFR) award while many of his colleagues, who also played pivotal roles in the fight for democracy, remain unrecognized.
Recalling the President’s call, Abubakar Umar said, “When I received the unexpected call from the President informing me of his decision to confer on me the National Award of Commander of the Federal Republic (CFR), I felt deeply honoured but also a strong sense of humility.”
He added, “The award was presented in recognition of my role in the struggle for the validation of the June 12th election and the affirmation of Chief MKO Abiola’s mandate. Yet, my immediate thought was: why only me?”
According to Umar, “There were countless officers and men who, alongside me, fought bravely in that struggle – many risking not just their careers but their very lives. I was one of the leaders within the military during that time, but I knew my contribution was no greater than theirs. While I have received recognition, including this prestigious award, many others remain anonymous and unacknowledged.”
Feeling the weight of this imbalance, the retired officer took it upon himself to shed light on these patriots. “Their efforts were instrumental in the emergence of the democracy we now cherish”, he said.
He pointed out that Chief MKO Abiola, the presumed winner of the June 12th election, secured over 80% of the votes from the Armed Forces – a testament to the courage and commitment of military personnel who stood firmly for democracy.
Among those heroes, Umar singled out his deputy at the Armoured Corps Centre and School, Colonel MA Garba, who, despite arrests and retirements in October 1993, continued the cause with unwavering resolve, ultimately achieving the rank of Major General.
Umar went on to list many others whose bravery and dedication deserve recognition, though he acknowledged that the list was not exhaustive and apologized for any omissions. “May their sacrifices be forever remembered and rewarded”, he prayed.
Among those he holds in the highest regard are Lieutenant Colonels Lawal Jaafaru Isa, UF Ahmed, MS Dasuki, ML Gwadabe, J. Temlong, Musa Shehu, Chris Eze, HM Dzarma, Isa Jibrin, JOS Oshanupin, A Oloruntoba (Kabiyesi Olugbede of Gbede kingdom), Moke, Happy Bulus, and Olagunsoye Oyinlola.
Others include Colonels J Okai and E. Ndubueze; Lieutenant Colonels Yakubu Muazu and Yahaya Abubakar (current Etsu Nupe); Majors Saad Abubakar (current Sultan of Sokoto), Abba Maimalari, Jamil Tahir, Buzugbe, LP Aprezi, MK Yake, J Dawah, Suleiman Wali, Dauda Komo, Lucky Torrie, JS Zaruwa, M Sumaye, Sani Bawa, Ndaliman, Ahmed, M Bawa; Lieutenant Colonel JB Ahmadu; and Captains Junaid Bindawa and Lar.
Accepting the award, Umar emphasized that he does so on behalf of all these men whose dedication remains publicly unrecognized, stressing, “This honour will be truly meaningful only if the democracy we fought for begins to deliver real dividends to the people.”
He stressed that such progress can only come if leaders govern with integrity, humility, and a sincere fear of God, adding, “The hope of every patriot is that this fragile democracy will not be derailed.”
Umar also highlighted that for Nigeria to move forward, good governance must prevail over selfish politicking. “Our government’s three branches – executive, legislature, and judiciary -must function independently but in harmony,” he stated.
Reflecting on the past, Umar said a crucial lesson from those days was the military officers’ determination to rise above sycophancy – “They held their superiors accountable rather than blindly following.
“Sadly, this attitude has not yet permeated our political leadership, where sycophancy has become rampant, breeding arrogance and vanity. This culture falsely elevates unworthy individuals, creating men of straw hailed as icons by self-serving flatterers.”
Col. Umar (rtd) urged President Tinubu to lead the fight against sycophancy in all its forms, including the troubling trend of naming public infrastructure after sitting Presidents or Governors – a practice that serves no public good.
He also addressed recent political commentary, noting, “The Senate President reportedly forecasted that President Bola Tinubu would win the 2027 election with 99.9% of the votes. While he is known for his humour, such declarations do not serve the democratic process. It would be wise for the President to distance himself from such exaggerated oracles.”
In closing, Umar reaffirmed his commitment to Nigeria’s democratic future, saying, “As I accept this honour, I remain hopeful and committed to the Nigeria we all fought for – a nation where democracy thrives, leaders serve with humility, and the sacrifices of many are never forgotten.”
