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As the nation marks 25 years of uninterrupted democratic governance since 1999, Kogi State Governor, Usman Ododo has urged Nigerians to continue to be resilient in the country’s journey to ensure justice for all citizens
In his democracy day message on Wednesday, Governor Ododo called on Nigerians to remain resolute and steadfast in the collective journey to sustain democratic governance which is essential to guarantee freedom of choice and the capacity of Nigerians to demand justice from those in positions of authority at all levels.
The Governor noted that the commemoration of Democracy Day must go beyond a day in our calendar but an auspicious opportunity for all Nigerians to reflect on the resilience, strength, and unwavering spirit of heroes who have made sacrifices to establish and sustain democracy in the country.
“As we celebrate Democracy Day and 25 years of uninterrupted civil rule in Nigeria, we salute the courage and determination of those who paved the way for the democratic governance we experience today.
“We must continue to honour their memory and pledge to uphold the principles for which they stood by ensuring that citizens continue to enjoy the freedom of choices and access to justice and the rule of law as enshrined in democratic principles.
“But beyond that, our people must be empowered to have decent lives by making our resources work in their interest and giving them opportunities to participate in economic activities at all levels,” Governor Ododo said.
While describing democracy as a continuous journey that requires the participation, vigilance, and dedication of every citizen, the Governor enjoined Nigerians to support the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in his efforts to mobilize Nigerians and our resources to overcome challenges that hinder our progress and strive towards a more inclusive, equitable, and prosperous society.
Ododo called on the people of Kogi State to remain steadfast in their commitment to the democratic ideals of unity, peace, and development.
He stressed the importance of dialogue, tolerance, and mutual respect among the people to navigate the complexities of a diverse society, stressing that his administration is committed to building a state where every voice is heard, every person is valued, and every community thrives as beneficiaries of the dividends of democracy.
“In Kogi State, we have made significant strides in strengthening our democratic institutions, promoting good governance, and ensuring the active participation of all our citizens in the democratic process. Our administration remains committed to transparency, accountability, and the continuous improvement of the welfare of our people,” Governor Ododo assured.
The Governor promised to sustain his consultation with all stakeholders to ensure an all-inclusive governance in the state.
In the same vein, the immediate past Speaker, Kogi State House of Assembly Prince Mathew Kolawole called on Nigerians to be patient with the administration of President Bola Tinubu, adding that, in the long run, he will surely overcome the problem and move the nation forward.
Prince Kolawole noted that the governor of Kogi State has started very well stressing that his policy so far since he became the governor of the state has improved the wellbeing of the people.
The Kogi State Chairman, Nigeria Labour Congress, (NLC) Comrade Gabriel Amari also called on Nigerian workers to be more resilient in the face of hardship.
Comrade Amari said the call became imperative given the economic challenges impacting workers negatively.
According to him, the NLC is working alongside the Trade Union Congress and all committees set up by the Federal Government to arrive at an acceptable new minimum wage for implementation.
The NLC Boss noted that democracy day is also a day of stocktaking by the nation’s leaders at all levels on the need to change the narrative for a greater Nigeria.
On his part, the immediate past Chairman, Trade Union Congress, TUC, in Kogi State Comrade Ranti Ojo called on Nigerians to remain steadfast in the face of present economic challenges.
Comrade Ojo, who is the current Chairman, Academic Staff Union of Secondary Schools, ASUSS, in Kogi State said the Government has put policies and measures in place which will soon start yielding results for a better Nigeria.
He called for sustained prayers for leaders in positions of authority as well as the need to remain hopeful for a greater nation.
