Oritsejafor, DPC felicitate with Nigerians, say nation is making progress

AS the nation marks its 55th independence anniversary, the President, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor, has said that Nigeria now stands well-built upon firm foundations despite its ups and downs.

He noted that even though we are not yet where we ought to be but we are relentless, and we are still forging ahead as individuals and as a nation.

Also, the Democratic Peoples Congress (DPC), has said that at the 55th independence of the nation, Nigerians deserve dividends of democracy and improved standard of living in line with the Section 14 (2)b of the 1999 constitution which provides that the security and welfare of the people shall be the primary aim of government.

In a statement yesterday in Abuja, Oritsejafor noted that the independence anniversary provides a great opportunity to reflect on our individual and collective attempts to take our country to its desired destination.

The CAN president urged Nigerians to take a cue from the words of our founding fathers and contribute our little quota to the growth of our nation, adding that every one of us has a role to play in bringing about a positive change in our nation.

He said: “I can say again that Nigeria will succeed; with our co-operation we shall succeed indeed. As we continue to reflect on our efforts as an independent nation having acquired our rightful status 55 years ago, I feel sure that history will show that the building of our nation proceeded at the wisest pace though plagued by different challenges.”

“The times call for sober and committed reflection on what we have done and what we have not done to advance the cause of our nation. These times also call for sacrifice and genuine service in anything that we are called to do for our fatherland. Nigerians regardless of their ethno-religious and socio-political leanings must contribute to this task of nation building, this therefore calls for prayers and support for leaders at all levels. I believe this clarion call is also divine.”

The cleric called on Nigerians to use the occasion of the independence anniversary to pray and support the troops in the front-line and their families in the barracks in order to advance the cause of Nigeria’s fight against terrorism.
He commiserated with the Sultan of Sokoto on the Hajj tragedy that led to the demise of some Nigerians in Saudi Arabia and prayed God to grant the deceased families and all Nigerian muslims the fortitude to bear the loss.

In his own statement, the National Chairmn of DPC, Rev. Olusegun Peters expressed gratitude to God that despite the civil war, political upheavals, militancy and insurgency, Nigeria remains the great arsenal of democracy in Africa and a key player in the world politics.
Peters observed that the independence anniversary calls for sober reflection and prayers for divine intervention in piloting the affairs of the nation.

It is a triumph of courage, patriotism and resilience of the citizenry to build a strong, virile, prosperous and just society.
He said: “Indeed, the state of the nation is bad despite abundant human and natural resources. It is obvious that the trouble with Nigeria is leadership. We urge President Muhammadu Buhari to be decisive, firm and courageous in charting the ship of the Nigeria state to the path of rectitude, development and advancement. We urge governments at all levels to be people-oriented and implement policies, programmes and infrastructure that will enhance the well-being of the populace. Partisan politics should give way for patriotism. It is time to provide strong progressive leadership that will achieve the dreams of our founding fathers. This is the only way we can honour our past heroes and give direction to future leaders.”

Peters noted that the DPC is in support of the Federal Government’s fight against corruption but demands a holistic war against it and recovery of all looted public funds and demanded for the probe of various governments since 1999.

According to him, the war against corruption should not be selective against opponents of the ruling All Progressives Congress, It should not be an instrument for victimization of perceived political enemies that must be silenced at all cost.

“The need to sanitize governance in Nigeria cannot be over-emphasized. Accordingly, the Judiciary, EFFC, ICPC and the Police should be strengthened to carry out their duties without fear or favour. We urge public office holders to be patriotic in their service to the nation and make accountability and efficiency their watch words”.

He enjoined INEC to provide a level playing field to all political parties contesting the Kogi and Bayelsa State governorship elections in November and December respectively.