PUSH NEWS 24 INTERNATIONAL : June 12, 2023
Amuwo Odofin All Progressives Congress (APC) Stalwart, Prince Lanre Sanus (PLS), monday advised Nigerians not to take for granted the continued democratic dispensation in the country since 1999 but must guard against actions, statements and moves which can truncate the political process.
Sanusi also advised the people to always be vigilant and speak against anti-democratic policies and actions which are capable of subverting the rule of law.
In his statement the Lagos born Prince stated this in Amuwo-Odofin congratulatating Nigerians on the continuos anniversary of unbroken elected government in the country.
The House of Rep faithful in his anniversary message also canvassed strict adherence to the principles of rule of law, separation of powers, sovereignty of parliament, independence of the judiciary, and freedom of the press, adding that, “our constitutional institutions must be preserved and protected”.
In his words, “As we celebrate democracy today, I congratulate our people and express my conviction that this system of government is the best so far invented. However, it goes beyond the conduct of elections to put leaders in office.
“Democracy involves strict adherence to rule of law as against the rule of men. It is about respect for due process and following laid down procedures. It is about respect for and building of institutions.
“That is why we cannot be celebrating Democracy Day without canvassing for caution on some recent negative developments in our polity, particularly as we commence a new dispensation.
These include abuse of office in a manner that suggests persecution and oppression of perceived enemies, stifling of free expression, undermining of democratic institutions, and impunity on the part of certain persons who behave as though they are above the laws of the land.
These developments should be of concern to all democrats. Other political and opinion leaders who decided to veil their sight as if they are not seeing these infractions on democracy and choose to keep quiet, should know that they equally pose danger to the survival of our country.
“History will not be fair to us if we allow our complacency to jeopardize democracy. We all must be able to speak out with strong voice on issues that constitute a danger to democracy. Eternal vigilance, they say, is the price of liberty.
“At this point, let us remember and salute our heroes of democracy, those who toiled and paid different prices for us to have elected government, particularly, those who paid the ultimate price with their lives. Their labour shall definitely not be in vain.“It is important for all of us to note that Nigeria will continue to exist after the 2023 polls.
We must therefore not do anything that will threaten the existence of the country or its peace, unity and tranquility.
Let me use this occasion to urge our all our people in Amuwo Odofin Federal Constituency to avoid making and circulating hate speech which can further accentuate our fault lines and set one section of the country against the other. Rather,
we should all embrace tolerance and the need to be our brother’s keeper. We all have a lot to gain from a united and stronger Nigeria than having a nation embedded in conflict.
“As we celebrate Democracy Day, it is my wish that Nigerians and in particular, Amuwo Odofin Federal Constituency will continue to enjoy good governance, provided by freely elected government and sustained by strong and impartial institutions, all of which will lead to the creation of a developed society with the citizens freely enjoying a high standard of living,” Sanusi stated.
