People still care about June 12 in Nigeria because it was like the one time everyone actually thought their votes counted, you know? Everybody says the 1993 election was the real deal – no crazy drama, no fighting over winners, just a peaceful vote. My dad always tells me how people from all over Nigeria voted for MKO Abiola, and it didn't matter what tribe you were from. That’s rare here.

But then, when the election was canceled by the military, it was a huge slap in the face. A ton of people protested and some even died. My mom remembers hiding inside because soldiers would beat people for shouting “June 12.” Ever since, June 12 is about remembering that hope we once had. It’s not just about a holiday or MKO Abiola; it's about what could’ve been.

Now, people use the day to talk about making Nigeria better and not repeating the same mistakes. There’s a ton of disappointment because elections today are still messy, but June 12 gives people something to believe in. Even my teachers say it's about more than politics – it's about believing things can actually change if we fight for it.