Group calls for participatory democracy in Bayelsa

Amb. Sokari Afiesimama, the President of Rescue Nigeria Mandate Mission (RENIM), a socio-political group, has called on the citizens of Bayelsa to ensure participatory democracy during and after Dec. 5 governorship election in the state.

He said participatory democracy, in which all citizens would be actively involved in all important political decisions, would enhance the expected speedy socio-economic growth in the state.

In a statement issued in Abuja on Tuesday, he said President Muhammadu Buhari had demonstrated the practice of participatory democracy by presenting credible Nigerians to serve as ministers.

He also urged the APC political leaders in Bayelsa to ensure broad participation by mobilising the grassroots to win the governorship election.

Afiesimama, who is also the National Publicity Secretary, Coalition of All Progressives Congress (APC) Support Group, said the coalition, in conjunction with RENIM, had prepared a proposal on youth and women empowerment.

According to Afiesmama, the coalition will also propose special service scheme to the incoming state government to pay attention to pensioners’ issues.

“In the proposal, RENIM recommends the strengthening of the electoral process, paying attention to the plight of the down-trodden, emphasis on employment generation, security and focus on the Niger Delta region development, among others.

“We believe that if Chief Timipre Sylva wins the election, he will approve and implement the proposal and it will validate the commitment and loyalty of the youth to him,’’ he said.