Group to Tinubu: Secure democracy, secure Nigeria

A non-denominational organisation, the Christian Conscience Group, has called on the President Tinubu-led administration to urgently implement measures that will strengthen and safeguard Nigeria’s democracy, saying the nation’s stability and progress depended on it.

The group however said the people determine the strength of democracy when participation is based on progress of the Nation.

The call was made at the end of the group’s monthly meeting held in Lagos on Friday.

The group’s position was made available to journalists in a statement jointly signed by its National Chairman, Dr. Yetunde Akinluyi, and National Secretary, Rev. Dr. Kolawole Verrals.

The group congratulated Nigerians on the occasion of Democracy Day, while urging citizens to continue holding political leaders accountable and reminding them to always prioritise the welfare of the people. 

It said: “There are many lessons to learn from June 12 episode. 

“Leadership is crucial but followership determines the tone.

“We congratulate Nigerians on this year’s Democracy Day celebration. 

“However, we must continue to remind our political leaders of their responsibility to govern with the interest of the ordinary citizen at heart.”

According to the group, Nigerians are demanding nothing extraordinary from their leaders beyond the basic necessities of a decent life.

It said: “All Nigerians desire is a good quality of life, affordable housing, motorable roads, accessible and affordable healthcare, quality education, and adequate security that allows people to move freely and conduct their lawful businesses without fear.

“Nigerians are resilient people. 

“When these basic needs are met, they will continue to contribute positively to National development and go about their daily activities in Peace.”

The group, however, warned that all Nigerians should be concerned about building a Nation of Strength and growth for all.

It added: “Democracy could be endangered when there is a wide gap between the living conditions of political leaders and those of the citizens they were elected to serve.

“Political leaders must be committed to National interest not just to live in affluence while the people they promised to govern continue to suffer hardship. 

“The foundations of democracy become weakened, and the nation risks social unrest.”

The group concluded by calling on the Federal Government to intensify efforts to secure the release of all Nigerians still being held captive by bandits. 

It said: “This cannot be done in isolation but inclusive of all. 

“Crime has no ethnicity. 

“Also Nigerians must stay to build not abandon the ‘Ship’ and lament noting that this aligns with the commitment made by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during his Democracy Day address to the nation.”