The Chairman, Senate Committee on Women Affairs, Ireti Kingibe, on Friday called on Nigerians to remain committed to the ideals of democracy, which she said remained the best form of government. Kingibe, who represents the Federal Capital Territory at the Senate, said despite the centrifugal forces threatening the unity of Nigeria, the country was making progress in a democratic government. The senator made this known in a statement to mark the International Day of Democracy, a day observed on September 15 by all United Nations member states to review the state of democracy in the world.
She stated, “As we mark the International Day of Democracy, it is fitting that we celebrate the gains achieved by our adherence to the rule of law. While it is indubitable that we are not where we had expected to be when we commenced this democratic journey in 1999, we have certainly made progress in terms of greater respect for the rule of law, the dignity of the human person, and the fundamental human rights of Nigerians.”
Kingibe assured Abuja residents that her tenure would usher in an era of improved security, healthcare, peace as well as provision of social infrastructure. Meanwhile, the Chairman of the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation and former President of Nigeria, Dr Goodluck Jonathan, called on leaders at all levels to take actions that would deepen citizens’ trust and ensure more youth participation in governance. In a statement signed by the foundation’s Communications Officer, Mr Wealth Ominabo, Jonathan noted that democracy flourished when there was a great sense of ownership and citizen inclusion in government and when the promises of freedom, peace and justice were felt.
The statement quoted him as saying, “Democracy is an important means towards achieving peace and national aspirations because it puts citizens at the centre of governance, entrusting them with the power to determine how their country is governed and who governs them.” Jonathan further emphasised the need “to prioritise social security issues and access to justice and de-emphasise ethnic and divisive politics to ensure that democracy thrives.”
Source: PUNCH
