Nigerian actress and activist Kate Henshaw has delivered a scathing assessment of Nigeria's democratic experience, stating there is nothing to celebrate after 26 years of uninterrupted civilian rule.
Speaking on a special Democracy Day television program, Henshaw expressed that the country's democratic journey has failed to address the fundamental needs of citizens, rendering it meaningless to the majority of Nigerians.
"There is no middle class and we cannot tell any more lies to ourselves," Henshaw stated, highlighting the deterioration across all sectors of the economy.
A Nation in Crisis
The outspoken actress painted a grim picture of the current national situation, declaring that "Everything around us is crumbling and Nigerians are barely holding on by the skin of their teeth."
She questioned the value of Nigeria's democracy if it remains disconnected from citizens' lives and fails to make meaningful impact on their wellbeing.
Despite her harsh critique, Henshaw urged Nigerians not to surrender to despair. She emphasized the importance of holding governments at all levels accountable for their actions and policies.
Call for Accountability
"We cannot keep quiet," Henshaw insisted. "There must be justice, equity, and security for the people — for their lives and property."
The actress concluded her remarks on a note of cautious optimism, saying: "But I still hold on to hope that we will have a country to live in, for our children — something they can build on."
Her comments come as Nigeria marks another Democracy Day amid growing economic hardship, security challenges, and widespread disillusionment with the political system.
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