June 12 honours list draws mixed reactions as Dele Momodu declines outrage, reflecting on legacy, personal blessings and Nigeria’s democratic future
June 12 honours list released by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu drew a wave of reactions nationwide, but veteran journalist and democracy advocate Dele Momodu has responded with unexpected calm and introspection.
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While many expressed outrage that his name was omitted from the national honours roll, Momodu issued a measured statement that prioritised principle over personal recognition.
Disagreeing with suggestions that the omission was deliberate or offensive, Momodu maintained that it is within the right of every government to honour whom it wishes. According to him, honorary awards are not an entitlement.
They may come now, later or never at all. More importantly, he acknowledged that numerous unsung heroes of June 12 were similarly left out, which only reinforces the limitations of official recognition.
Rather than dwell on absence, Momodu used the moment to reflect on what June 12 has already given him. He credited the 1993 pro-democracy movement with opening paths to global opportunities.
After returning from exile, he launched Ovation International, secured homes and citizenships in multiple countries, and gained international prominence.
In his words, he was “amply compensated by the collective sacrifices made by Nigerians.”
Still, he did not miss the chance to express his discomfort with the current administration’s drift from democratic values.
In a subtle yet strong rebuke, Momodu said he would have felt “embarrassed” to be honoured by a government “trampling on the tenets of democracy” and “dangerously leading Nigeria down the slope of dictatorship.”
Yet, despite his disapproval, he reiterated his personal respect for President Tinubu, whom he still regards as a big brother and friend.
His message struck a careful balance between critique and gratitude. Declining any sense of bitterness, he thanked the President for sparing him the moral dilemma of either rejecting an award from a government he disagrees with or risking public misinterpretation.
According to him, such an award would have presented a conflict between personal principles and perceived loyalty.
Momodu ended his statement by extending “massive congratulations” to all those honoured, a gesture that reinforces his belief in civility, regardless of political tension.
June 12 honours list may have triggered sharp debate, but Momodu’s response has elevated the conversation to one of legacy, humility and democratic responsibility.
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While others fumed, he chose reflection. While some saw exclusion, he saw divine favour. In an age where outrage often dominates the news cycle, his voice stands out as a calm defence of values over vanity.