President of the Senate, Godswill Obot Akpabio, has urged Nigerians to remain united, resilient and actively engaged in nation-building as the country marks 27 years of uninterrupted democratic governance.
In a Democracy Day message released on Thursday, Akpabio congratulated Nigerians for sustaining democratic rule for nearly three decades, describing the country’s democratic journey as a testament to endurance despite challenges and agitations over the years.
The Senate President, through a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Hon. Eseme Eyiboh, acknowledged that mistakes had been made along the way but expressed confidence that Nigeria would achieve its democratic aspirations with the continued support of citizens.
“On behalf of the 10th National Assembly, I congratulate every Nigerian for the sustenance of democracy for close to three decades. Mistakes have been made in the course of this journey but we will surely get to the desired destination with your support,” he said.
Akpabio urged Nigerians to remain committed to democratic governance and resist attempts by forces seeking to undermine the nation’s democratic progress.
According to him, democracy should not be limited to periodic elections but should be anchored on accountability, justice, compassion and service to the common good.
The Senate President also called on young Nigerians to take a more active role in the country’s political process, stressing that the youth represent the future of leadership in the nation.
“As we commemorate June 12, I wish to encourage the youth not to sit on the fence but be active participants in the nation’s political activities. The youths constitute the fulcrum of those who will succeed us tomorrow,” he stated.
He further urged citizens to recommit themselves to the ideals of freedom, transparency, accountable governance, social justice and active civic participation.
On the issue of insecurity, Akpabio appealed to Nigerians to cooperate with government efforts aimed at tackling terrorism and other security challenges confronting the country.
He assured citizens that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains committed to restoring peace across the country and securing the release of persons held in captivity.
“I urge every Nigerian to support the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in its efforts in fighting terrorism. We understand the pains you are going through, but the government is not resting on its oars and hopefully we shall overcome this current challenge and all will be well with Nigeria,” he said.
Akpabio’s message come as Nigerians commemorate Democracy Day, observed annually on June 12 in honour of the historic 1993 presidential election widely regarded as one of the freest and fairest in the country’s history.
