Former President Goodluck Jonathan has warned that the winner-takes-all method of politics in Nigeria is detrimental to political justice and unity in the country. Speaking at the 2024 Democracy Day Lecture, Jonathan emphasized the need for a more inclusive model of democratic practice that would foster social cohesion. He advised the National Assembly to develop a formula that would allow political parties that receive a certain percentage of votes in an election to have a role in governance. Jonathan also called on President Bola Tinubu to prioritize infrastructure development and reduce the influence of religion and regional politics. In response, Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, stressed the importance of inclusivity, accountability, and transparency in ensuring the long-term success of democracy. He urged every citizen to actively participate in nation-building and create a society where every voice is heard and every potential is realized. The Democracy Day Lecture also recognized the sacrifices made by those who fought for democracy in Nigeria.
Seun Onigbinde, CEO and Co-Founder of BudgIT, stated that Nigeria's democracy remains crippled due to inadequate governmental institutions. He emphasized that the country's institutions should be loyal to the people and the constitution, rather than the government in power. Onigbinde made these remarks at a special edition of The Platform Nigeria, a program discussing the state of Nigeria's democracy. He highlighted the importance of autonomous and independent police, military, and election commission for a thriving democracy. Onigbinde also mentioned that Nigeria's democracy is flawed because it lacks local representation and that local governments have been stripped of their rights by state governments. He emphasized the need for active citizen participation and robust institutions, citing the example of the United States.
Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, the Lagos State governorship candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 general election, believes that in order to bring about the desired change in Nigeria, opposition parties must unite to remove the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) from power in 2027. Rhodes-Vivour criticizes the current administration under President Bola Tinubu, describing it as retrogressive and highlighting issues such as high inflation, unemployment, poverty, and government corruption. He also expresses concern over the proposed change of the national anthem and the Lagos-Calabar coastal road project. Rhodes-Vivour emphasizes the need for leaders with integrity and principles, and calls for opposition parties to merge and present a united front in the next election. He expresses skepticism about the electoral process and the judiciary, but remains determined to fight for a better Nigeria.
Gbenga Akinwande, a philanthropist and chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ogun State, spoke about the economic and political developments in Nigeria, challenges ahead of President Bola Tinubu, and the problems of leadership and followership in the country. He stated that Nigeria has not seen any president who has made the right decisions for the country and that the followership has been docile. Akinwande believes that Nigeria's economic crisis is a result of poor leadership recruiting processes and docile followership. He suggested that remedies could be provided by showing seriousness in the leadership recruitment processes and getting involved in politics to get the best leaders. Akinwande also discussed the issue of minimum wage, stating that it should be based on the reality on the ground and that a minimum wage higher than N250,000 is advisable but unrealistic for Nigeria to sustain. He advised President Tinubu to have a rethink on some policies and consider policy reversal if necessary to avoid turbulent waters in the 2027 general elections. Akinwande supported the idea of restructuring and regionalization and suggested referring to President Jonathan's organized National Conference report. He believes that implementing the recommendations from the report will help move the country forward in terms of real development.
Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, the Senate Majority Leader, reflects on the 25 years of uninterrupted democracy in Nigeria. He highlights the historical context and the growth of democracy in the country. Bamidele discusses the role of the National Assembly in the democratic journey, the high turnover of parliamentarians, and the need for collaboration between the executive and legislative arms of government. He also shares his views on the proposal for rotational presidency and a single term of six years, as well as the issues of state police and autonomy for local governments. Bamidele addresses the misconception about constituency projects and emphasizes their purpose of implementing projects in various constituencies for the benefit of the people. Overall, he believes that Nigeria's democracy is maturing and expresses hope for a better future.
Vice President Kashim Shettima criticized Nigerians who ridiculed President Bola Tinubu after his fall during the celebration of Democracy Day on June 12. Shettima expressed disappointment with the negative depiction of Tinubu and defended his leadership abilities. He mentioned examples of other leaders who faced physical challenges but still demonstrated strong leadership. Shettima emphasized that Tinubu is a man of ideas and has the capacity to drive change in the country [5b4afbe1].
Former Head of State, Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar (retd.), emphasized the need for constant nurturing and vigilance to sustain democracy in Nigeria [436a60a2]. Speaking at an event in Abuja, he highlighted electoral integrity, human rights, economic development, and social justice as critical areas that require collective attention and action. Abubakar acknowledged the challenges faced during Nigeria's democratic journey but praised the indomitable Nigerian spirit. He called for the strengthening of democratic institutions and recognized the role of the media as the watchdog of democracy. Abubakar commended ThisNigeria Newspaper for championing free and fair journalism.
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo of Ghana has reaffirmed his commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring free, fair, transparent, and credible elections in the country. He emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and order during the election period and warned against vigilantism, stating that anyone who seeks to subvert the free will of the people will be dealt with in accordance with the law. The President called on all political parties and candidates to respect the democratic process and the will of the Ghanaian people. The government has implemented measures to ensure a peaceful election period and is determined to enforce the law on vigilantism. Ghana has been recognized as a beacon of democracy on the African continent, and President Akufo-Addo stressed the collective duty to safeguard this reputation. The commitment to upholding the rule of law and preventing acts of vigilantism is crucial for maintaining Ghana's status as a democratic leader in Africa [66101041].
Vice President Kashim Shettima expressed his disappointment at the way President Bola Tinubu's stumble at the Democracy Day Parade on June 12 was celebrated on social media. Shettima described it as disheartening and disenchanting, emphasizing that true leadership is not about physical strength but the ability to come up with robust ideas to solve a nation's problems. He praised Tinubu's leadership skills and highlighted examples of other leaders who were able to drive change despite physical challenges. Shettima urged people to rally around Tinubu and support him, emphasizing the need for reforms and sustained progress in Nigeria's economy [ea0825dc]. Vice-President Kashim Shettima expressed his disappointment at the celebration of President Bola Tinubu's stumble on June 12 at the Democracy Day Parade. Shettima criticized those who made fun of the President and emphasized that true leadership is not about physical strength but the ability to come up with solutions to a nation's problems. He cited examples of leaders like Franklin D. Roosevelt and Mua Kibaki who faced health challenges but still led their countries effectively. Shettima praised Tinubu's leadership and highlighted his role in transforming Lagos into a thriving economy. He urged people to support Tinubu and emphasized the importance of reforms and public institutions in creating lasting progress for Nigeria [85436a51].