June 12: ‘Our Democracy Echoes Troubled Tunes’ — Atiku

EKO HOT BLOG reports that former Vice President of Nigeria and presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party in the 2023 election, Atiku Abubakar, expressed his concerns about the state of democracy in the country, stating that it remains constrained despite the end of military rule in 1999.

He called on Nigerians to unite and take action to rescue and strengthen the democratic system.

EDITOR’S PICKS

• Shehu Sani Slams Wike’s Appointment Obsession, Questions APC’s Focus

• Arewa Women, APC Governors Back Tajudeen Abbas As House Speaker

• Apple Unveils Revolutionary Mixed Reality Headset, Challenges Meta’s Dominance

In a Facebook post on Monday, marking the 30th anniversary of the June 12, 1993 presidential election, Atiku emphasized that Nigeria’s current political landscape should be considered a return to civil rule rather than true democracy. He urged citizens to reflect on the nation’s journey towards becoming a fully democratic society.

While extending his congratulations to Nigerians on Democracy Day, Atiku stressed that achieving true democracy requires a steadfast commitment to principles such as fairness, adherence to the rule of law, and transparency in conducting elections.

“But democracy without a corresponding commitment to the principles of fairness and fidelity to the rule of play by stakeholders in conducting elections still leaves the people prostrate to dictatorship tendencies,”

He criticized the manipulation of electoral outcomes by individuals in positions of political leadership, highlighting that such actions undermine the democratic process.

To enable Nigeria’s democracy to flourish, Atiku argued against undue influence of the governing elite on election results. He emphasized the necessity of an electoral system that genuinely reflects the will of the people.

Acknowledging the progress made in the activism that led to the current democratic dispensation, Atiku underscored the need for ongoing efforts to further strengthen democracy. He highlighted that democracy and the process of democratization are continuous endeavors that require constant attention and improvement.

“For our democracy to be fully fledged, it must constantly evolve away from the current practise where the governing elite determines the outcome of elections.

“Democracy and the process of democratisation are a constant work in progress. While what we celebrate today is a return to civil rule in Nigeria, the desire to make our democracy self-sustaining and independent of anti-democratic elements is the new frontier of participation by all democrats.

Atiku and Tinubu

Atiku emphasized the importance of making Nigeria’s democracy self-sustaining and resilient against anti-democratic forces. He called on all proponents of democracy to unite and work together to advance the cause of democracy and the democratization process.

The former vice president stressed that the future of Nigeria’s democracy depends on the actions taken today. He cautioned against the relentlessness of enemies of democracy and urged Nigerians to redouble their efforts to overcome such threats.

Concluding his statement, Atiku emphasized the need for an unwavering commitment to democracy. He called on all Nigerians to join the fight to protect and strengthen the democratic ideals of the nation.

FURTHER READING  

• TUC Roars: Demands N200,000 Monthly Minimum Wage, Lower Petrol Price For Negotiations

• Tinubu And Other Political Powerhouses Converge Behind A Closed Door Amid Tribunal Case

• Imo Election: LP Candidate Reveals Running Mate, Delivers Quit Notice To Uzodinma

Atiku’s remarks serve as a reminder of the challenges that lie ahead in Nigeria’s democratic journey. His call for collective action underscores the shared responsibility required to overcome obstacles and ensure a robust and thriving democracy for the country.

Click to watch our video of the week