Why we must protect Nigeria’s democracy, Obasa, Fashola, others

Despite its challenges, democracy in Nigeria must be protected by every citizen.

The advice was given by the speakers at an event to commemorate the country’s 25 years of unbroken democratic governance, organised by the Lagos State House of Assembly.

Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa; former governor of Lagos, Mr. Babatunde Fashola; foreign diplomats, and business experts argued on Wednesday evening that democracy has benefitted Nigeria since 1999 when the country began its Fourth Republic.

Others who spoke at the event include Prof. Eghosa Osaghae of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs; Dr. Muda Yusuf, former chairman of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce; and Mrs. Abike Dabiri-Erewa of the Nigerians in the Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM).

Obasa said Nigeria deserved to celebrate because, in the last 25 years, the country has successfully transferred power from one administration to another, and upheld the principles of representation, accountability, and the rule of law.

“Our democracy has endured despite challenges and setbacks. We have faced elections, protests, and debates, but our commitment to democracy has remained unwavering.

“We have demonstrated that democracy is not a destination but a journey, and we are proud to be on this path. We must continue to guard it jealously, for it is the foundation upon which the fabric of our nation’s progress is built.

“We must continue to promote democratic values, protect human rights, and ensure that our democracy remains perpetually unbroken,” the Speaker said while recalling the struggle and sacrifice made by well-meaning Nigerians during the struggle for democracy.

Also speaking, former governor of Lagos, Mr. Babatunde Fashola, said 25 years of democracy had provided an opportunity for effective representation of the people as well as freedom to make laws.

Urging Nigerians to hold on to democracy very jealously, he argued that the federal system practiced in Nigeria remained important to the country’s growth.

“For those who are understandably impatient with democracy, I hear them. It can be a tedious way to govern. There is no better way to order our affairs. I will not trade the liberties it offers for anything else.”

The Consul General of the French Embassy in Lagos, Laurent Favier, while congratulating Nigeria, said “Democracy is not a state of perfection but something people have to fight for at all times. It is a political structure that must be deepened.”

He expressed satisfaction with how democracy in Nigeria has ensured freedom just as he urged the country not to relent in making citizens happy.

On the other hand, Weert Börner, Consul General of Germany, said his country with 16 states, practices the same federal system as Nigeria adding that this results in healthy competition.

Consul General of the Embassy of Italy, Ugo Boni assured that the government of his country will continue to be a trustworthy companion of Nigeria while the British Deputy High Commissioner, Lagos, Jonny Baxter, said: “In these challenging times, it is important that we support each other in our shared commitment to democracy.”