- Protect, sustain democratic government in Nigeria – Sanwo-Olu
- Adeleke advocates credible elections to immortalize Abiola, others
- No more excuses, Bode George tells Tinubu
- We can’t be silent amidst poverty, hardship, unemployment – Protesters
Several state governors and other stakeholders on Wednesday tasked Nigerians on the need to keep Nigeria united, maintaining that there was no suitable alternative to democracy.
They also eulogized the late Moshood Abiola and his wife, Kudirat, for resolving to fight in the face of military tyranny and paid tributes to all those who participated in the struggle to return Nigeria to democratic rule.
The governors took turns to promise hope for citizens in their respective states, as Nigeria celebrated the 25th anniversary of her democracy.
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, enjoined Nigerians, particularly Lagos residents, to protect and sustain the present democratic government in Nigeria.
He said all hands must be on deck to sustain democracy in Nigeria so that the struggle of the nation’s founding fathers and heroes of democracy, especially those who fought for the return of Nigeria to a democratic path on May 29, 1999, will not be in vain.
Governor Sanwo-Olu said the commemoration of another June 12, which marked the celebration of 25 years anniversary of unbroken democratic governance in Nigeria, must come with a deep reflection on the progress recorded so far in the nation’s democracy.
Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, commended Nigerians for upholding the core tenets of democracy over the 25 years, noting that efforts at democratic consolidation would engender sustainable development in the country.
In a statement, the governor also charged voters in the state to come out en masse to participate in the September 21 governorship election and to vote wisely so as to sustain the state’s developmental trajectory.
According to him, “As we mark this year’s democracy day, it is pertinent to applaud the tenacity, resilience and bravery of Nigerians in sustaining the core tenants of democracy over the past 25 years. It has remained one of our greatest legacies as a country that we are able to freely choose those who preside over our affairs and decide to either keep or change them every four years.
“We have come a long way in this journey. Though we might be where we wish to be as of today, we are better off for it as a nation. Democracy remains the most desirable form of government because of its core principles of freewill, free enterprise, civil liberties, fairness and justice.
“We have grown as a democratic nation over the years and all credit for the progress we have made goes to Nigerians who continue to respect the tenets of democracy as the best choice to attain sustainable development.”
In the upcoming Edo State governorship election, the governor urged Edo people to vote wisely, ensuring to cast their vote for the candidate who presents the most credible, pragmatic, intelligible and coherent pathway to societal development.
Adeleke advocates credible elections to immortalize Abiola, others
The Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has highlighted free and fair elections as the best way to honour the memory of the acclaimed winner of the June 12 Presidential election, Bashorun Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola, and other democratic heroes.
Describing free and fair elections as the lifeline of any virile democracy, Adeleke acknowledged the sacrifices and struggles that paved the way for the civil rule that we currently enjoy today in a statement to commemorate Democracy Day on Wednesday.
He called on politicians in the country to submit themselves to upholding the tenets of democracy by respecting the will of the people.
Adeleke, in a statement signed by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed in Osogbo, the state capital, said the political class must recommit to strengthening the country’s electoral system to deliver credible elections and ensure that the will of the people is not subverted.
Calling election rigging an act of war, Adeleke said, “Our best homage to our democratic heroes is our continued upholding the basic tenets of democracy. Such include free and fair elections and observance of the rule of law.
“We cannot on one hand celebrate democracy day and on the other hand undermine the democratic machine. You cannot be applauding the great memories of the late Bashorun Abiola and at the same time be working against free and fair elections.
“I call on leaders locally and nationally to rededicate ourselves to democratic ideals. The will of the people freely expressed must be accepted by genuine democrats. Our electoral system must be strengthened to deliver credible elections. Under no circumstances should the will of the people be subverted.
Free and fair elections, Adeleke continued, “Are the lifeline of any virile democracy. Politicians must grow to know and accept that power flows from the people. Rigging elections is an act of war against democracy. Genuine democrats accept electoral verdicts as a mark of respect for the voters, the ultimate holders of sovereignty. That’s what I did in 2018 when I was denied victory.
“If there is any lesson June 12 every year is to teach us, it is that democracy thrives when electoral candidates bow to people’s will. We must stop being autocratic in democratic garb.
“If you are rejected at an election, take it in good faith and prepare for the next round of election. After all, Abraham Lincoln failed several polls before his eventual emergence as American president.”
After congratulating Nigerians on their 25th year of unbroken democracy anniversary, the Imo state Governor, Hope Uzodimma said the attainment of the feat, is due to the sacrifices of Nigerian heroes and nationalists.
“It is evident that Nigeria is on a journey of irreversible economic growth and greatness among the comity of nations,” he said, adding that although the democratic journey has not been smooth sail in the past 25 years, however, there was no doubt that Nigerians are determined to defend her democracy notwithstanding.
He saluted the resilience of Nigerians who turned out to cast their votes for the sustenance of democracy year in and year out, including those who have died.
The governor added that no matter the inherent weakness in Nigeria’s democracy, which unconscionable people exploit for their selfish interest, the fact remained that democracy as a form of government, remained the best option for humanity as it guarantees freedom of choice, justice, fair play, equity and inclusion.
Prioritize citizens’ welfare, promote participatory democracy – Governor Sani
Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State has also urged political actors to shun ant-democratic tendencies, and commit themselves to the promotion of democratic culture and citizenship.
He similarly called on political leaders to work assiduously to strengthen institutions saddled with the promotion and protection of democracy in Nigeria.
In his message to commemorate Democracy Day, Governor Sani commended the citizens for embracing democracy and defending it with their blood and sweat, noting that democracy remains the best system of government despite its imperfections.
Governor Sani however asked political actors, especially those saddled with running governments to frontally address poverty, and unemployment and ensure food security, which are what will make meaning to people as a democracy.
He said, “On the auspicious occasion of Nigeria’s Democracy Day, I join our fellow compatriots and lovers of democracy to salute the men and women who laid down their lives for the enthronement of democracy in our dear country. I remember the inimitable Chief MKO Abiola, GCFR, legendary Chief Gani Fawehinmi, SAN, Dr. Beko Ransome-Kuti, Chima Ubani and other pro-democracy, human rights and labour activists who fought the military adventurists to a standstill so that we can enjoy the freedom that comes with democracy.
“It is because of this realisation that since the inception of our government in May 2023, we have been running a pro-people and development-centered administration. We have committed ourselves to bringing succour to the poor, vulnerable and underserved in Kaduna State. We are revitalizing education to ensure accessible, affordable and quality education for children of the underprivileged in Kaduna State. We are boosting agriculture through sustained provision of agricultural inputs and equipment to smallholder farmers and small-scale agro-processors,” he said.
Democracy is rooted – Governor Muhammed
Speaking on Wednesday in Bauchi State, Governor Bala Mohammed said it was clear that democracy is not only rooted, but has also come to stay in Nigeria.
“That we are today celebrating the 25th Democracy Day is a testimony to the fact that democratic governance has not only been firmly rooted but has also come to stay in Nigeria.
“There is no better alternative to democracy as a form of government that gives the people the right to choose who to govern them and how they want to be governed.
“It is now one year since I was re-elected to serve the good people of Bauchi State for another four years. My re-election is a testimony of the confidence reposed in our Administration by the good people of Bauchi State,” he said.
Governor Radda urges unity to overcome national challenges
Governor Dikko Umaru Radda of Katsina State issued a stirring call for unity, tolerance, and unwavering support for the nation’s progress as it confronts formidable challenges.
With reverence for the sacrifices of past heroes and heroines who paved the way for Nigeria’s democratic governance, Radda emphasized the importance of collective action in advancing the nation’s democratic values.
He said, “In honouring Nigeria’s Democracy Day, we pay homage to the indomitable spirit of our forebears who valiantly fought for the freedoms we cherish today.
“Their legacy inspires us to forge ahead with determination and purpose, united in our quest for a better tomorrow,” he remarked.
He urged Nigerians to join hands and transcend the boundaries of ethnicity, religion, and political divide to build a Nigeria that embodies the true spirit of democracy – a nation where justice, equality, and opportunity are the cornerstones of our collective greatness.
While extending his warmest felicitations to President Bola Tinubu, and the patriotic people of Katsina State as the nation commemorates another milestone in its democratic journey, Governor Radda acknowledged the trials facing citizens and the nation as a whole.
He emphasized the need for collective resilience and determination to overcome these hurdles.
He also extended empathy to those grappling with more pressing issues and reaffirmed his administration’s steadfast commitment to addressing them head-on.
Eno felicitates Tinubu, others
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno congratulated President Tinubu, the leadership of the National Assembly, the Judiciary, Armed Forces and other Nigerians on the occasion of this year’s Democracy Day.
In a goodwill message released by his Chief Press Secretary, Ekerete Udoh, Governor Eno said, “Let me on behalf of the Government and people of Akwa Ibom State, congratulate the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, on this year’s Democracy Day, which also marks 25 years of unbroken democratic rule in our dear nation.
“There is no doubt that our democracy has consolidated, and the traditions, norms and culture have also been deeply internalized by Nigerians.
“Let me thank the 10th National Assembly led by our son, Distinguished Senator Godswill Akpabio, CON, the President of the Senate, for working collaboratively with the Executive Arm to make laws that advance the ideals of democracy and our shared hope and prosperity.
“The judiciary has also played a key role in deepening the consolidation process of our democracy. Above all, we thank the Nigerian people in general and especially my dear Akwa Ibom people for their faith in our democracy and its ennobling ideals.
“Let me also thank the Service Chiefs of the Nigerian Armed Forces and other security agencies, for the great role they have played in strengthening our democratic ethos through the subordination of their roles to civilian control.
“It has been 25 years of growth; of facing challenges associated with nation-building while addressing the needs of the people.
“Even though we still have many miles to travel, the miles we have covered so far give us hope for the journey ahead.
“Let us continue to pray for our leaders and support them in their determined efforts to bring growth and development to our people.
“We must continue to celebrate our diversity and see this as a source of strength rather than an instrument to widen our fault lines and create a further chasm of division.
“Our National Anthem says it all; ‘Though tribes and tongues may differ, in brotherhood we stand.’
“Here in Akwa Ibom State, we will continue to roll our sleeves and work tirelessly across party lines to bring democratic dividends to our people, in line with our ARISE Agenda,” the statement concluded
No more excuses, Bode George tells Tinubu
However, a chieftain of the main opposition party, the People’s Democratic Party, Bode George, has said there would no longer be any excuse for President Bola Tinubu to justify failure to address the woes in the country and the attendant hardship after spending one year in office.
The elder statesman said though he had earlier told Nigerians not to knock the president on the tides in the country because he was new on the job, the time of tolerance for any excuse has elapsed after spending one year on the seat as president of the Country.
George who spoke on the democratic experience of Nigeria following her 25th year democracy day celebration on Wednesday mentioned that the country was sliding away with “hunger and anger in the land” and there was nothing to celebrate about.
The PDP chieftain took a similar position as the 2023 presidential candidate of the PDP, Atiku Abubakar in the All Progressives Congress-led government, saying the last nine years of the party in government has seen Nigeria “drowning”.
While the last nine years referred to comprise the eight years of two terms of the immediate past Muhammadu Buhari-led government and one year of President Tinubu, George specifically said the time to tolerate excuses from the Tinubu-led government has elapsed.
George said the president must explain the brain behind every policy of his government and “let the people feel the actual impact of democracy.”
“I told people, I said don’t start firing Bola (President Tinubu) for now because he has just completed one year. He had never served there before. So, give him that one year, that is, May 2023 to May 2024. But it’s over; he cannot pretend now that he doesn’t know the situation on the ground.
“What are we celebrating? There is hunger in the land, and there is anger in the land. Mr. President, from today on, he is celebrating democracy day to let the people feel the actual impact of democracy. Let us go through the rigours and complete the procedure of normalcy of civilised behaviour.
“Look at Great Britain, the Conservative party has been in power for about 16-18 years, now the people are tired and you see the results of their election. Look at India, 686 million people voted. The total number of voters in Nigeria is not up to 20 million and we can’t manage it.
“We have been drowning in the last nine years. From now on, going forward, Bola (President Tinubu) would have no excuse anymore. He must explain every policy that is done.
“We are not playing politics now. We just want to see. I told people to leave him alone (President Tinubu). Last year, he was learning. Now, where do we go? How does he manage the system in a manner to make life more meaningful for the people?
“I grew up in Lagos Island, I went to my primary school in Lagos Island; there was quality education and discipline. We learnt and this is what has kept us to this level till today. Look at what those schools are doing today. Younger ones are more interested in yahoo yahoo (internet fraud); shortcut to making money and then what do you do with ill-gotten money?” he said.
The PDP chieftain further lamented the level of inflation in the country, saying the increase in the salaries of workers would not necessarily translate into a better economic experience, lamenting that the rise in inflation has negatively eroded the purchasing power of workers in the country.
“The salaries of judges were increased by 300 per cent, but what is the percentage for the common worker? It is not the actual physical cash you take home as salary, the question is what can you buy with that amount? That is the issue. It’s not the cash.
“The basic lesson we learn in an economics class is that where there is too much money chasing too few goods, there would be hyperinflation and where there is hyperinflation interest will be the upshot. I was at the bank and they couldn’t give me more than N20, 000 in cash. Was this the Nigeria we all fought for and defended? What on earth is going on?” he queried.
George, who said he would keep speaking truth to power without fear or intimidation, called on political stakeholders in the country to reassess themselves and work together to chart the way forward to redeem the country from her woes.
“We got the amalgamation in 1914, Pa Herbert Macaulay set up the first political party in 1922. Look at us today, I don’t know. We must work together. How many more years am I going to live?
“I will just tell them, I’m not afraid of anybody, I’ve been to the topmost mountain in this country, I’ve seen the bottom of the valley in this country. If you think you are okay in your house, and your neighbour is not okay, you must be a dreamer,” George said.
We can’t be silent amidst poverty, hardship, unemployment – Protesters
Also, protesters under the Edo State Civil Society Organisation, on Wednesday, called on the Federal Government to put an end to the suffering of the masses, advising the need to formulate and advance policies that would better the lot of Nigerians.
One of the leaders of EDOSCO, Kola Edokpayi, who stated this at a protest/rally organised by the organisation in Benin, said they came out to vent their frustration over the state of the nation.
He said, “We totally reject this brand of democracy being practiced in the country. This democracy is not for the people, it is against the people. We cannot continue to be silent in the midst of poverty, hardship and unemployment.
“The reason why we are out today is to vent our frustration over the state of the nation. The masses are suffocating due to the iron grip of hunger, poverty and economic downturn under President Bola Tinubu.
“We are saying that this country should be fixed so that we can avoid agitation for self-determination as witnessed in the South East, with people in that region saying they are not part of Nigeria.
“Those piloting the affairs of the country have failed woefully. These people travel abroad and see how things work there. Unfortunately, they cannot replicate what they see here.
“We call on the government to end the suffering of the masses and institute policies that will better the lot of Nigerians.
“The leaders know the solution. We want them to give us employment and create an enabling environment for investors to come into the country.
“They must halt insecurity and fix power. Why are they increasing tariffs when the power supply is epileptic? The suffering must end so that the masses will stop agitating for their rights.”
