Democracy Day : Bad governance, injustice has brought us to this point 25 years after— Ex NOA DG

By David Okpashi

Former Director General of National Orientation Agency ( NOA), Dr Mike Omeri has attributed low spte of the democratic growth in Nigeria to bad governance, injustice saying the nation must move away from the negative tendencies of the country’s democracy must grow.

Be has also called for the entrenchment of the political norms as well as upholding the vision of the founding members.

This is even as he has advocated justice for all Nigerians as the country marks 25 years of uninterrupted democratic governance since 1999.

Omeri in his 2024 Democracy Day message called on Nigerians to remain resolute and steadfast in the collective journey to sustain democratic governance in the face of dounting challenges confronting the citizens as a result of mismanagement of the nation resources which is essential to guarantee welfare, promotes rule of law and the capacity of ordinary Nigerians to demand justice from those in positions of authority at all levels.

According to the former NOA DG, the commemoration of Democracy Day must go beyond a day in our calendar but an auspicious opportunity for those saddled the the responsibilities of governing the country.

Omeri who lamented misplacement of opportunities that abound for the benefit of all, cautioned against wastages, manipulations, by the few previllaged one further stressed the urgent need for the present administration 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 make the 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 for by ensuring that citizens continue to enjoy the freedom of choices, access to justice and 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,” Omeri stated..

While describing democracy as a continuous journey that requires the participation, vigilance, and dedication of every citizen, the PDP front line member enjoined Nigerians not to lose hope adding that the they should remain state fast and mobilize for greater tomorrow.

“We have the capacity, the strength to overcome challenges that hinder our progress and strive towards a more inclusive, equitable, and prosperous society.
Let us remain committed to the Democratic tenent by saying no to manipulative tendencies of those out to rule at all course”.

He called on the people of Nasarawa State to remain steadfast in their commitment to the democratic ideals of unity, peace, and development, stressing the importance of tolerance, and mutual respect among the people to navigate the challenges.

“In Nasarawa State, we must strive harder to redeem the significant strides that were fast eluding the peaceful citizens by standing firm, strengthening our democratic institutions, promoting unity, peace and ensuring active participation of all our citizens in the democratic process. I have no doubt that Our people will remain genuinely committed to collective resolve for genuine fight for our right devoid of rancour and accrenomy.