Nigeria celebrates democracy, applauds democratic credentials
The Secretary to the government of Nigeria,(SGF) Mr. Boss Mustapha says the country’s democracy is fast developing and achieving very important tenets of the democracy.
The SGF Stated this in an interview with Voice of Nigeria on Monday in Abuja during the country’s democracy day anniversary parade which was graced by President Muhammadu Buhari, former presidents and vice presidents, members of the diplomatic community and many dignitaries.
In another interview session on the sideline of the event, Japanese ambassador to Nigeria Mr. Kasuyorshi Musunapa also disclosed that his country is in a robust partnership with Nigeria to deepen democracy across board in the political space.
The Japanese envoy said all the tenets of democracy need to be practiced and exhibited. He specifically mentioned freedom of speech and that of the media in particular as important elements.
In a similar vein, the European Union ambassador to Nigeria, Mrs. Samuela Ispoi also said the Nigerian youths are a major ingredient in the democratic journey of the country and they must be full participants in the process.
Meanwhile, President Muhammadu Buhari received a rousing welcome from students, guests and dignitaries when he stepped into the arena during the event.
While inspecting the guards on a special parade vehicle, the President was cheered by guests particularly students who were waiving the Nigerian flags.
This was followed by military and police march past in slow and quick time, combat march display by the Nigerian Army Women Corps and combined silent drill display by the Armed Forces and Police.
Another high point of the event was the recognition given to the Vice-President of the1993, June 12 presidential election, Alhaji Babagana Kinghibe as a former Vice-President of Nigeria.
Prior to Buhari’s arrival, the Deputy of the Senate, Ovie Omo-Agege; Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila as well as members of the National Assembly had taken their seats at the venue.
Former President Good luck Jonathan, the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad; Secretary to Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha and Service Chiefs and Ministers were also present.
Recalled that President Buhari in June 2018, directed that Nigeria’s Democracy Day, marked every May 29, be shifted to June 12 to honour Chief MKO Abiola, winner of the 1993 presidential election.
In compliance with the presidential directive, this year’s celebration will mark the fourth time that the Day will be marked on June 12.
