Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, has stated that Nigeria has not yet attained the democratic heights envisioned despite celebrating 26 years of unbroken democratic rule.
Speaking at the Democracy Day Lecture held at the State House in Abuja on Thursday, Akume expressed optimism that the nation's path remains straight and will lead to the desired destination.
Democracy Amidst Regional Challenges
The SGF highlighted the significance of Nigeria's democratic journey, especially at a time when several African nations are reverting to military rule and dictatorships.
"It is trite for me to start by congratulating all Nigerians on the occasion of the 26 years of unbroken democratic rule. At a period when many African Countries are sliding back into Military rule and dictatorship, Nigeria is powering forward in Democratic rule," Akume stated.
He added, "Even though we have not attained the democratic heights envisioned, we are confident that our path is straight and will lead us to our desired destination."
Remembering the June 12 Struggle
Akume reflected on the historical significance of the June 12 movement, which he described as a watershed moment in Nigeria's democratic journey. He recalled how millions of Nigerians across the country united against military oppression.
"The June 12 struggle was a watershed as millions of our country men and women poured out on the streets from Lagos to Ilorin, Kaduna to Kano, Ibadan to Makurdi, Bauchi to Jos, Port Harcourt to Enugu. From the towns and villages, the cry to democracy and just coalesced into a movement, The June 12 movement. That movement birthed Nigeria's new democratic journey," he explained.
The SGF paid tribute to those who sacrificed for democracy, noting that many died, were brutalized, imprisoned, or lost resources in the struggle. He emphasized that one of these democracy fighters eventually became the current President.
Call for Development-Focused Democracy
Akume stressed the importance of guarding Nigeria's democracy while ensuring it delivers tangible development to citizens.
"We can only immortalize them by ensuring that we guide and guard our democracy. That we work to bring development to Nigeria. Democracy without development is empty and is bound to fail," he concluded.
The Democracy Day celebration comes amid heightened security presence in some states, with reports of security personnel deployed to prevent protests against bad governance in places like Edo State.
Follow BenriNews on social media for more updates:
