•As Mbah vows to strengthen citizens’ faith in democracy
Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State, yesterday, said that Nigerians should use this year’s Democracy Day celebration to take stock of both progress and challenges in the nation’s democracy.
He commended President Bola Tinubu for the steps he has, so far, taken, saying it is an indication that the future of Nigeria is brighter.
Nwifuru made this known in his Democracy Day message signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Dr. Monday Uzor, calling on Nigerians to put aside sentiments and work with Tinubu’s administration to achieve a more prosperous nation.
The governor maintained that the celebration has presented another opportunity for Nigerians to take stock of both progress and challenges with regard to the nation’s democracy.
He said: “Today is a memorable and an eventful period in the annals of our nation. 24 years of uninterrupted democratic rule is a clear indication that Nigerians have taken their destiny in their hands.
“Though, the democratic trajectory has been characterised by mixed experiences, we are confident that the challenges will be surmounted in a matter of time.”
The governor, who noted that democracy is the best system where ultimate power resides with the people, urged political actors to learn from obstacles to build a nation that would be anchored on equity, fairness and justice.
“Elections are over; it is time for all to close ranks, put aside primordial sentiments and work together in the interest of the nation,” he added.
ALSO, Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State has assured of his administration’s determination to strengthen the people’s faith in democracy by rewarding their votes with impactful and life-changing projects as outlined in his manifesto and social contract with them.
In his goodwill message to the people, yesterday, in commemoration of this year’s Democracy Day, the governor said that the state government would not rest until it achieves promises of growing the economy, creating jobs, addressing insecurity, infrastructural deficits and lifting people out of poverty, among others.
In a statement, Mbah noted that the state had made appreciable progress since the return of democracy in 1999, adding that his administration would double efforts to fix the state and attend to welfare of the people.
He said: “Although the history of our democratic journey has been checkered with challenges, yet the state is moving at an encouraging pace.
“Let me equally seize this opportunity to salute the people of Enugu State for their heroic feats, and for keeping faith with us. It is through your overwhelming support that we are here today as your representatives. We will not let you down in the coming days and years.”
