I greet and felicitate with fellow Nigerians,today,as we mark 19 years of uninterrupted democratic governance in our beloved country.
Democracy day marks the turning point in our history,when we-as a nation-defied all odds and expectations,and chose to rebuild our motherland on the principles adhered to by many nations before us.
Let us understand that this democracy of ours is not just a gift, but a responsibility to be harnessed and developed for the benefit of generations of Nigerians that are yet unborn.
While it is natural for disappointed expectations to lead to despair, Nigerians should not give up because democracy remains the best form of government, despite its limitations from one society to another.
There are tendency of leaders forgetting their oath of office or promises which can lead to disillusionment a situation, which should not be allowed to dampen popular morale about democracy.
I also urge leaders at all levels to welcome constructive criticisms as this is the bedrock to positive change and a means of improving the quality of democratic governance.
Furthermore, I enjoin Nigerians to participate actively in the democratic process and collaborate with government to strengthen the institutions in order to reach the Eldorado. Nigerians owe it a duty to nurture and sustain the democratic institutions.
I also appeal to Nigerians to live in peace with one another and shun actions and utterances capable of putting the nation on the edge. There is need for peaceful co-existence among ethnic and religious groups in Nigeria to
engender development in the country.
Where there is no Peace we find: agitation, conflict, distress, disunity, disorder, hardship, violence, war and general failure.
Meanwhile, where there is Peace, there is calmness, comfort, dialogue, friendship, love, patience, reconciliation, rejoicing, security and unending progress and development.
I further encourage Nigerians to live together in Unity. It is a propelling factor towards nation building. No other people or nation can build a sustainable environment but the citizens of that nation. The job is cut out for us
as Nigerians. There is more power in unity than division,no wonder even the weak become strong when they are united. Where there is unity there is always victory. Nigerians must remain resolute to remain united or indivisible
irrespective of our diversity in culture and religion.
Finally, I congratulate all Nigerians on today’s commemoration of this important day in the democratic calendar of our country.
Long live Kogi State !
Long live Federal Republic of Nigeria !!
– Bolade Olumide Emmanuel
Public Affairs Analyst
