As Nigerians mark Democracy Day, the House of Representatives Minority caucus has called on Nigerians to be patriotic in public service to further advance Nigeria to greater heights.
This was contained in a solidarity message jointly signed by the caucus leaders: Rep Kingsley Chinda, Minority Leader, Rt. Hon. Dr. Ali Isa J.C Minority Whip ,Rt. Hon. Aliyu Madaki Deputy Minority Leader, Rt. Hon. George Ozodinobi
Deputy Minority Whip stating that:
“The Minority Caucus of the House of Representatives wishes to congratulate Nigerians on this auspicious occasion of Nigeria’s 26th Year of unbroken democracy.
” As we all celebrate this remarkable milestone, the Caucus acknowledges the heroes and heroines who, in times past sacrificed for the freedom of democratic governance we all enjoy today.
“We, salute the courage of the ordinary citizens who paid the supreme price in the course of the struggles to enthrone a virile, and prospective country built on the rule of law; protection of lives and properties; promotion of equity; fairness, and justice; which are the basic fulcrum of democracy.
“As a responsive and responsible group, the Caucus believes that today, gives us all another opportunity for sincere introspection, and objective reflection of how far we; as a nation have gone on the democratic route since 1999. As we mark 26 years of popular, and participatory governance in Nigeria, there is the need, more than ever to be sincere in our reviews, and honest in our assessments.
“Indeed, in 26 years of democratic governance, there are several successes and achievements recorded by the past and present administrations. Under each of the five presidents; Olusegun Obasanjo; late Umaru Musa Yar’adua; Goodluck Jonathan; Muhammadu Buhari; and now Bola Tinubu different mileages have been covered. All these Leaders, in their respective ways have raised the bar of participatory governance.
“Even though we have gone far, there are more fields to be covered. Given the country’s enviable status as the most populous black nation in the world; blessed with naturally-endowed environmental vegetation; huge population; hardworking and industrious citizens; Nigeria should not, at this time and age be ravaged with visible features of under-development.
” It is saddening, and largely unacceptable that in over two decades of democracy, a plethora of social, economic, and political challenges still envelope the country. Corrosive poverty; accentuating unemployment; disabling underdevelopment; overwhelming hardships; and increasing insecurity are pervading the country.
“All these are consequences of inept, selfish, and corrupt ledership. Unfortunately, these and more negative indices of underdevelopment are fast breeding frustrated patriotism, over aching disillusionment, and citizens lack of trust in governance, the Caucus added.
“As a Caucus, we are concerned and mindful of these challenges that keep undermining the country’s resolve towards meaningful growth, development, and transformation. We know, and believe that Nigeria is a blessed nation with enormous potential; diversity is one of our greatest assets.
“Conscious of the fact that the journey to true nationhood; anchored on equity, fairness, and justice is a continuous task that requires the sacrifices of all and sundry, the Caucus, on this unique occasion enjoin all Nigerians to collectively resolve to play their roles towards changing the present narratives.
“Leaders must mean what they say and only say what they mean and exhibit selfless patriotism in the service to the nation.*
‘Finally, the Caucus urges that as we all collectively forge ahead in the democratic mileu, there is an urgent need to reconnect and recommit to the true values of peace, unity, and oneness. Also, it is necessary to reiterate that the future of Nigeria rests on our ability to stay, and work together as one indivisible entity towards the realization of our common goals, desires, and aspirations as a NATION. The indivisibilty of Nigeria is unconditional.
Happy Democracy Day!