Jonathan, Obi advocate strong institutions as Tinubu leads Independence Day celebration
02 October 2024 |
5:35 am
President Bola Tinubu, yesterday, led Vice President Kashim Shettima and other high-profile guests to mark Nigeria’s 64th Independence anniversary, which climaxed with a military parade at the forecourt of the Presidential Villa, Abuja, amid pomp and ceremony.
Pursue independence from state capture, Obi tells Nigerians
President Bola Tinubu, yesterday, led Vice President Kashim Shettima and other high-profile guests to mark Nigeria’s 64th Independence anniversary, which climaxed with a military parade at the forecourt of the Presidential Villa, Abuja, amid pomp and ceremony.
In a message shared on his X handle, Labour Party (LP)’s presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, Peter Obi, urged citizens to strive for a nation liberated from state capture and widespread suffering that has gripped the country. He canvassed commitment to build a truly independent Nigeria that prioritises the well-being of its people.
For Nigeria to deepen democracy and foster inclusive economic growth, there is a need to strengthen institutions, former President Goodluck Jonathan said yesterday. He stressed the need for a good democratic culture supporting peaceful and credible elections.
Although the Independence anniversary was meant to be low-keyed, hundreds of high-profile guests, who sought to access the gates to the venue, had a Herculean task as they were subjected to intense checks by security agents.
A heavy deployment of plain-clothed security operatives and soldiers of the Elite Brigade of Guards characterised the forecourt venue for the ceremonies.
Tinubu, on arrival at 10am was ushered into the arena by pipers after an inspection of the quarter guard mounted by troops of the brigade. He, thereafter, climbed the saluting dais where he took the national salute as Special Guest of Honour to signify the commencement of the event proper, which witnessed a presidential change of guards. This paved the way for a Nigerian Armed Forces Colour patrol and displays to symbolise Nigeria’s national and military pride.
Guests were also treated to a variety of unique performances by a combined mass band and displays put together by a cultural troupe comprising dancers from the six geopolitical zones to depict the country’s diversity.
The event climaxed with Tinubu signing the anniversary register. He was later joined by Shettima, leadership of the National Assembly, service chiefs, the Inspector General of Police, the National Security Adviser (NSA) and the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) to cut the anniversary cake.
He, thereafter, released pigeons to symbolise peace in the country.
EMPHASISING the significance of the anniversary, Obi stated: “Anniversary celebrations, whether of an individual or country, provide opportunities to reflect on memories, celebrate accomplishments, look to the future, and offer gratitude.”
He highlighted that this year marked 64 years since Nigeria embarked on its journey as an independent nation, urging citizens to appreciate the vast natural and human resources that could drive the country towards greatness.
However, he cautioned that the day should also serve as a time for introspection, particularly for leaders whose actions contributed to the nation’s ongoing struggles.
“An unexamined life, they say, is not worth living. We must, therefore, examine our lives in the light of our journey as a nation within these last six decades,” Obi remarked.
Obi envisions a “New and Productive Nigeria” that genuinely prioritises the welfare of its citizens, stating, “That is the Independence we will celebrate as a nation, and it is possible.”
JONATHAN, in a statement on his X handle, noted that “as the nation marks the important day, Nigerians must remain optimistic, resilient and committed to the nation’s greatness,” despite the odds.
With a common purpose, zeal and love for one another, he noted, Nigerians can overcome challenges and build a prosperous nation of collective dreams, where every citizen has equal opportunity to thrive. He said: “We have sustained democracy in this Fourth Republic for 25 years,” he noted, praising the country’s ability to maintain democratic governance after years of military rule.
“To deepen the roots of our democracy and foster inclusive economic growth, we must strengthen our institutions. As a nation, we must recommit to justice, equity and inclusion.”
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