By Muhyideen Jimoh
President Bola Tinubu has called on Nigerians to continue defending and strengthening democracy, saying this is a collective national achievement built on the enduring spirit of the people.
Tinubu made the call in his Democracy Day address on Friday.
The president said Nigeria had recorded 27 years of uninterrupted democratic rule since 1999.
He said citizens had consistently chosen their leaders through the ballot box and resolved disputes through constitutional means.
“Today, we celebrate not only democracy but also the enduring Nigerian spirit.
“For 27 unbroken years, since May 29, 1999, Nigerians have chosen their leaders through the ballot, witnessed peaceful transitions of power, and resolved disagreements in courtrooms and legislative chambers, not through violence.
“We have experienced the longest stretch of civilian rule in our history.
” Our democracy is not perfect, but it is ours, and we must continue to defend and strengthen it,” he said.
Ahead of forthcoming elections in Ekiti and Osun States, Tinubu urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies and political parties to ensure peaceful, transparent and credible polls.
According to him, democracy is weakened when citizens lose confidence in the electoral process.
The president also commended the National Assembly, judiciary, media and civil society organisations for their roles in safeguarding democratic governance.
“To our National Assembly, judiciary, the press, and civil society: you are the guardrails of our republic.
“Criticise me, disagree with me, but never stop believing in Nigeria,” he said.
Tinubu urged young Nigerians to contribute actively to nation-building by investing their talents and energy in the country.
“To our young people: Nigeria is your home and your future. Build here, code here, work here, and vote here.
“Every great nation was built by those who stayed to solve problems, not by those who abandoned ship,” he said.
The president also paid tribute to members of the armed forces, police and intelligence agencies for their sacrifices in safeguarding the nation.
He equally thanked traditional rulers, religious leaders and community heads for promoting peace, dialogue and reconciliation across the country.
“The government cannot do it alone,” Tinubu emphasised. (NAN)
