As Nigeria celebrates first Democracy Day under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, a non-governmental organisation in Osun State, Insight Initiative for Community and Social Development has called on federal and state governments to consolidate on the gains through affirmative actions that will better the lives of Nigerians.
The Organisation, in a statement signed by its Programme Manager, Democracy and Good Governance, Basit Olokuta, highlighted six policies that the governments can initiate in order to ameliorate the hardship inflicted on Nigerians by the subsidy removal.
Insight Initiative said “Nigeria’s horse of democracy galloped on the blood, sweat, and tears of some people, who sacrificed themselves without holding back, for democracy to triumph. These individuals stood against reigns of terror, against the silencing barrels of the military regime, against the guillotine machinery that subvert the wills of the people, against the scorching heats that dried up our mighty pens, and against the minute few that perpetually dominate the majority.
“These men and women of valour are the heroes and heroines of our democracy, and our history shall forever perpetuate their memories. Worthy of mention among these heroes are Chief MKO Abiola and his wife, Mrs Kudirat Abiola, and a host of others, especially the nameless and faceless among them.
“Coincidentally, the celebration of this year’s Democracy Day witnessed a new power architecture in our country with the election of the 16th President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as well as the election of State Governors across several states of the Nigerian Federation.
“This new milieu is thus a golden opportunity for our nation to consolidate our democratic gains through decisive affirmative actions by the new government to smoothen our democratic process.
“At Insight Initiative, we call for affirmative action in the following areas;
“Fight against corruption, waste, and political extravagance; Strengthening of our democratic institutions through strict adherence to the principles of Separation of Power and Checks and Balances among the three arms of government; Independence of the judiciary, unalloyed Press Freedom, Independence of the electoral body and electoral integrity, and protection and promotion of the fundamental Human rights.
“Other areas, according the organisation are Massive investment in Human Capital Development through impactful skills acquisition, entrepreneurial development, job creation, and supports for Small and Medium Enterprises; Massive but prudent investment in capital infrastructure and welfare services; Massive investment in Agriculture, Health, education, and other key sectors of the economy.
“Last, we urge the governments at all levels to embark on the creation of an export-oriented diversified economy by creating and encouraging manufacturing industries and containing unbridled imports into the country.
“We must reiterate that these affirmative actions require not just the political will and dedication of the government, but also the overwhelming support of the citizenry. A good point to start is to renew our hope in Nigeria and our confidence in the ability of Nigeria to triumph. We must, therefore, all stand together as one great nation in defence of our sovereignty and do all we can to entrench its sustenance.
“At Insight Initiative, we wish you all a Happy Democracy Day.”
