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The leaders of the Upper and Lower Chambers of the National Assembly have felicitated with Nigerians, as the nation marks its 21 years of uninterrupted Democracy.
Senate President Ahmad Lawan, in his message on Thursday, said June 12 has become a metaphor in the country for free, fair and credible elections and a memorial for the day in which Nigerians stoutly rose above ethnic and religious sentiments to deliver a pan-Nigerian mandate for the revival of hope in their country unity and attainment of its great potential.
Senator Lawan noted that the heroic demonstration of patriotism by the Nigerian voters on June 12, 1993 will continue to inspire generations of their compatriots to promote national unity and defend democracy in Nigeria.
“Our uninterrupted practice of democracy in the last 21 years attests that democratic civil rule is taking roots and becoming firmly entrenched in Nigeria,” he said.
“While there is a consensus that democracy is the best form of government, it is also important to stress that democracy is a process that evolves with time.
“We should, therefore, continue to have faith in the capacity of our system to deliver the dividends of democracy to our people.
“On our part as the Legislature, we will continue to provide the platform for improving that system and democratic practice across board.
“The on-going process of constitutional amendment and the much awaited electoral reforms will take cognizance of our past pitfalls and the democratic ethos required to guide us to where we want to be,”
The Senate President further encourage all Nigerians to embrace a healthy democratic practice devoid of desperation and violence. He wished Nigeria eternal peace, unity and prosperity.
Similarly, Speaker House of Representatives, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila congratulated Nigerians, noting that since 1999, the country has come a long way in democratic practice and the nation’s system is growing by the day.
Gbajabiamila, speaking through his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Lanre Lasisi, said he believes Nigeria has learnt a lot in the last 21 years of uninterrupted democracy.
He called on Nigerians to remain united in the face of daunting challenges facing the country, while stressing the need for the citizens’ cooperation with the leaders in order to sustain the country’s democracy as it is the system that protects the interest of all.
The speaker further appealed for fervent prayers for the country to overcome the myriad of security challenges in parts of Nigeria.
He expressed satisfaction that June 12 has now become Nigeria’s Democracy Day, courtesy of the All Progressives Congress (APC) led government.
