Written by Simon Leaf Musa
Omission of a Key Figure from June 12 Honors Raises Concerns
Last year, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu announced a series of national awards to honor those who significantly contributed to the June 12 struggle. Notably absent from this list was Dr. Jonathan Cyrus Zwingina. The respected figure passed away in Abuja on October 3, 2024, shortly after celebrating his 70th birthday. Dr. Zwingina’s ascent to national prominence began in 1987 when he was appointed National Director-General for Mass Mobilization for Self-Reliance, Social Justice, and Economic Reconstruction (MAMSER) by former military president General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida. His journey took him from the former Gongora Province to Plateau State, where he ultimately became a target of political conspiracies aimed at sidelining him from power.
Political Contributions and Legacy
As Director of Elections for Chief Olu Farae, who was later displaced, Zwingina played a pivotal role in the electoral processes of the late Chief MKO Abiola, later becoming the executive director of Abiola’s Hope ’93 campaign. He was instrumental in shaping the Social Democratic Party’s (SDP) presidential election strategy, effectively navigating challenges that arose during the campaign and contributing to Abiola’s victory at the Jos congress. Zwingina’s strategic guidance was crucial, especially as he and others, including Chief Lamidi Adib, worked closely to devise plans for overcoming obstacles faced by the SDP.
Recognizing Unsung Heroes
The omission of Zwingina from the honorees on June 12 is a disservice to the memory of those Nigerians who dedicated their lives to a cause that was not only personal but also in service to the nation. To disregard his contributions is to attempt to rewrite history itself. The ongoing neglect of Zwingina’s legacy is a glaring oversight that must be rectified. I urge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to acknowledge this error and formally commend Zwingina and his fellow campaigners for their unwavering dedication to restoring the legitimacy of the annulled June 12 election.
The Importance of Posthumous Recognition
Acknowledging dedicated service, even after death, serves as an inspiration for current and future generations. Dr. Zwingina has undeniably earned recognition for his indispensable role in promoting democracy in Nigeria. The significance of June 12 as a turning point in Nigeria’s struggle for democracy cannot be overstated, but a true celebration of this historic moment requires honoring those who sacrificed so much. A nation’s character is ultimately defined by how it honors its past, especially those who have passed away.
A Life Committed to Justice and Excellence
Born on August 1, 1954, in Falu village, Adamawa State, Zwingina graduated with first-class honors from the University of Ibadan. His academic journey included a position as a faculty member at what is now Yola State University of Technology, as well as completing a PhD in Australia. Renowned for his intellectual brilliance, he dedicated his life not only to rigorous academic research but also to advocating for social justice. Zwingina exemplified the qualities of trust and excellence that many Nigerians strive for, emerging from humble beginnings to achieve noteworthy scholarly and activist success.
A Fearless Leader and Advocate
Despite his modest origins, Zwingina emerged as a compelling figure in Nigerian politics, earning a doctorate in political science and leaving a legacy infused with activism and intellectual rigor. He championed justice for all, cutting across ethnic and religious lines. Known for his humility and principled leadership, the former Senate Majority Leader created an enduring impact on Nigeria’s legislative landscape.
