
Gov. Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has called for reflection on the country’s democratic journey as the nation celebrates 25 years of unbroken democratic rule.
Aiyedatiwa stated this in his address on Wednesday in Akure at an event to mark the country’s democracy day celebration.
The governor said June 12 was a day of celebration, solemn reflection and time to reminisce on the journey, challenges faced and the way forward in the coutry’s nascent democracy.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that June 12 was declared Democracy Day to commemorate the struggle that followed the annulment of June 12, 1993, election generally believed to have been won by the late Chief MKO Abiola.
He said that democracy was well and alive in Nigeria, affirming, that the sacrifices of the patriotic heroes and martyrs of the June 12 struggles had not been in vain.
“Today is a day of celebration and solemn reflection, It is a time to reminisce on our democratic journey, the challenges we’ve faced, and the way forward.
“We honor the sacrifices of those who fought for our democratic rights and strived to consolidate this great legacy,” he said.
Aiyedatiwa said the June 12 was pivotal moment in the country’s socio-political history and its role in advancing democratic governance, civil liberties and nationhood could not be understated.
“We are dedicated to ensuring that Ondo State enjoys the dividends of good governance.
“We will continue to address security challenges, strengthen the ‘Amotekun Corps’ in collaboration with other security agencies, and pursue transformational strategies that align with our socio-economic realities,” he said.
Aiyedatiwa advised residents and political stakeholders in the state to maintain law and order as the Nov.16 governorship election approaches.
Earlier, the guest speaker, Sen. Surajudeen Ajibola, who spoke on the theme “The State of Democracy in Nigeria: Issues, Challenges, and the Way Forward.” noted that since 1999, democracy in Nigeria had faced so many challenges.
Ajibola listed such challenges as; electoral integrity, judicial efficiency, corruption, and weak institutions.
Ajibola said that despite reforms, issues like vote buying and electoral violence persists, while political interference hinder judicial and good governance.
He called for comprehensive reforms, including deeper electoral reforms with technology, judicial independence, and stronger anti-corruption measures.
Ajibola also added his voice to the long list of stakeholders calling for the local government autonomy, transparency and community participation to improve service delivery to the people.
In his welcome address, Chairman of the event, Prof. Olu Aderohunmu, said that the celebration was to honour activists and stakeholders who fought for the democracy the country is enjoying.
He expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for restoring the essence of democracy and thanked the governor for his leadership and efforts in making Ondo State a conducive place to live.(NAN)