Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has congratulated Nigerians on the auspicious moment of the Country’s 25 years of unbroken democratic experience, deducing that Nigeria is headed on the path of irreversible economic growth and greatness.
In his goodwill message to mark this year’s landmark Democracy Day (Silver Jubilee), the Imo State Governor who is the Chairman of Progressives Governors’ Forum as well as the Chairman of South East Governors’ Forum said despite the teething challenges that come with the practice of democracy, Nigerians have shown readiness to defend the system and make the best out of it.
Governor Uzodimma urged Nigerians to remain committed to the tenets of democracy, persevere in the face of global economic challenges and support the policies of the government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu that are geared towards ensuring that the citizenry reap full dividends of democracy.
To the good people of Imo State, the Governor reiterated his commitment to the reconstruction, rehabilitation and recovery of the State’s infrastructure in such a manner that the people will be proud of their State and the government of the day.
Governor Uzodimma’s message read in full:
“It is a thing of joy that Nigeria and Nigerians are today celebrating 25 years of unbroken Democracy. That means we have come of age and that Democracy as a system of government has come to stay.
“While I congratulate all Nigerians for this remarkable feat, I use this opportunity to salute our heroes and nationalists whose sweat and blood watered this beautiful system of government that we are enjoying. Because of their various sacrifices, it is now evident that we are on a journey to irreversible economic growth and greatness among the comity of nations.
“Although our democratic journey has not been a smooth sail in these past 25 years, there is no doubt that Nigerians are determined to defend it, the system’s imperfections notwithstanding. I therefore salute the resilience of our citizens who, year in and year out, had turned out to cast their votes for the sustenance of democracy. For those who died in the process, I am sure that their deaths will never be in vain.
“Because we have gone this far in our democratic journey, we must ensure we don’t look back. No matter the inherent weaknesses in our democracy, which some unconscionable people exploit for their selfish interests, the fact remains that democracy as a form of government remains the best option for humanity. Indeed, it has been tried and tested, and the result remains that it is one system that guarantees all of us freedom of choice, justice, fair play, equity, and inclusion.
“For Nigeria, there is no other viable alternative, especially now that we have a committed democrat on the saddle in President Ahmed Bola Tinubu as our leader. He has tackled governance challenges with uncommon dedication, and the results are there after one year in office.
“Let me use this auspicious opportunity to urge Nigerians to persevere in the face of the current global economic challenges with its consequences for our country. However, I am confident that although we are experiencing economic hardships presently in the country, there is no doubt that we will emerge more robustly because the steps the federal government is taking are the right ones for our economic recovery. I, therefore, urge all patriotic Nigerians to be patient, as the end will undoubtedly justify the means.
“For the good people of Imo State, we have worked together to deliver democracy dividends in the last four years. The fruits are there for all to enjoy. We have fully recovered our State from those who wished to enslave us. We have fully reconstructed and constructed our critical infrastructure while the rehabilitation process moves at a more incredible speed. But most importantly, we are in a State where the voices of the ordinary man and woman are heard and respected.
“On this occasion of the 2024 Democracy Day, I pledge to remain transparent and accountable in the governance of the State. In doing so, I will ensure that we all are active participants in the governance of our State. To me, that is the essence of democracy.
“I wish you all a happy Democracy Day.”
