June12 Democracy Day; We have made appreciable progress, a New Nigeria is at sight

Mukadam Asiwaju Asiru Idris,FCA 

On this auspicious day, I join all patriotic Nigerians in commemorating Democracy Day. As a nation, we have come a long way through turbulent and stormy path to earn the freedom and liberty we enjoy today.

Apparently, Democracy day was a day set aside by our forebears to celebrate the unprecedented transition from the authoritarian disposition of the military to the era of freedom, liberty and civil rule that characterise democratic practice. The transition was made possible by the sacrifices and relentless efforts of our heroes, dead and alive.

Its about 22 years of return to the 4th republic of  democratic dispensation, after many years of military junta and affair, which inturn slowed down our fledging democratic practice and thickness. Nevertheless, since 1999, we’ve had our liberty, freedom and full fundamental human rights restored. Although, in the journey so far, there has been lagging issues but we have made appreciable progress 

Its also significant to harp on the shift of Democracy Day celebration from May 29 to June 12, which is to commemorate the budged Hope 1993 Presidential election of Chief MKO Abiola that has being popularly adjudged as the most freest, peaceful and credible in the annals of our electoral history. Therefore, the personae of MKO, the conduct of the election and the spirit of democracy are all in perfect alignment. Such commendable action, is a respect for the sovereign will of the people to elect their leaders and dedication to democratic values.

” It speaks to the fact that before we can engender an inclusive democratic system, we must have patriotic players and citizens like MKO, consequently, a free and credible election that will toll the path of 1993 must be adopted”. Am sure we can make it possible again!

As often said, the worst  democratic system is far better than the best military rule. Its now imperative than ever before to guard our nascent democracy from those who seek to rubbish the huge sacrifices made to come this far. Our experiences and history have proven that democratic practice is for the greater good and development of the people. We must continue, against all odds, to nuture it to perfection.  We have made appreciable progress, but we are not yet there.

Undoubtedly, we have our challenges as a nation, which, of course, have put our people on the edge recently. We must nonetheless understand that the only way to help our hitches and lapses is to address them dispassionately, without colouration or sentiment of any kind. We must continue to show love and make our cohabitation work.

We must not give credence to the orchestrated plot and ploy of unscrupulous elements who are hellbent on instigating Nigerians against one another. They are faning ember of discord and hatred. But our Unity is our strength. Let us promote cohesiveness and togetherness above the despicable tendencies of the  enemies of the state.

Lastly, our heroes past and alive, that fought tooth and nail to bring back democracy, must not just be honoured by reciting their names but by injecting the spirit and hope of democracy into our words and deeds. In becoming better Democrats, we also become better at being Nigerians. 

Regardless of the setbacks, a NEW NIGERIA where our democracy gains stronghold and meaningful impact is at sight.

I wish all of you a great and happy Democracy Day.