Dare-Atoye Memorial: CSOs urge Nigerians to speak out against injustice

Adopt-a-Goal Initiative, in collaboration with the Coalition of Civil Societies (CSOs) has urged Nigerians to continue to speak up against injustice and advocate reforms that uplift all Nigerians.

The coalition made the call in a statement by a Director of Adopt a Goal, Kunle Afolabi, on Sunday in Abuja to commemorate the second memorial anniversary of a Social Rights Activist, Ariyo Dare-Atoye.

Dare-Atoye, who succumbed to lung cancer on October 27, 2022, was a tireless advocate for justice, democracy, and accountability.

Afolabi said that the unwavering dedication of Dare-Atoye to defending the marginalized and championing democratic reforms left an enduring legacy that inspires and guide efforts to build a transparent and just Nigeria.

“As we remember Dare-Atoye, we encourage all to continue his work by standing against injustice, advocating for governance reform, and fostering unity.

“Let us reflect on his remarkable life and commitment to a brighter Nigeria, and honor his memory by striving for the just, transparent and prosperous future he envisioned.

“Let us support one another, speak up against injustice and advocate for reforms that uplift all Nigerians,” he said.

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folabi said that amid Nigeria’s economic hardship, rising inflation, security concerns, and the urgent need for governance reform, the principles Dare-Atoye championed were more relevant than ever.

He also said Dare-Atoye’s vision for a Nigeria where the government is held accountable and the people’s voices were heard remained a guiding light in times of uncertainty.

“In spite the difficulties Nigeria faces today, Dare-Atoye’s legacy reminds us that resilience and collective action are key to overcoming these obstacles.

“His life demonstrated that active, courageous citizenship has the power to drive change, and his commitment to justice continues to inspire those who fight for a brighter future for Nigeria.

“His life and legacy serve as a beacon of hope for those working to achieve the Nigeria he envisioned: accountable, transparent, and fair,” he said.

Afolabi said as part of tributes to Dare-Atoye’s legacy, the Abuja School of Social and Political Thought would on Monday present the second Dare-Atoye Memorial Election Reform Series.

He said that the series would have as its` theme “Presentation of a National Action Plan for Electoral Reform.”

He said that the event would gather policymakers, civil society leaders, and advocates to explore actionable steps for strengthening Nigeria’s electoral processes.

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“To honour his memory, Dare-Atoye’s family and friends request that donations be made to the less privileged, charitable organizations and public primary and secondary schools, causes close to his heart, in lieu of flowers.

“Let us remember Dare-Atoye with gratitude and carry forward his vision of a just, compassionate, and accountable Nigeria’’, he said.

Dare-Atoye was the Executive Director of Adopt-a-Goal Initiative, an organization devoted to social and political reforms, particularly through electoral integrity and institutional accountability.

He was known for his unyielding stance on transparent governance and he led crucial advocacy efforts to implement the electronic transmission of election results in Nigeria.