Sam Philip
As Nigeria marks the 64th anniversary as an independent and a sovereign nation, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and the candidate of Peoples Democratic Party(PDP) in the 2023 presidential election has cautioned Nigerians that the political system of the federation is tilting towards a one party system of government.
Congratulating Nigerians on the momentous occasion of the nation’s 64th Independence anniversary, he called for a united endeavour to elevate the country to the greatness envisioned by its esteemed founders.
This was contained in a statement personally signed by the former Vice president on Monday.
Atiku emphasized that this milestone is not merely a commemoration but a tribute to the indomitable spirit and unwavering resolve of Nigerians who steadfastly believe in the potential of their homeland.
He said: “Our nation has traversed numerous tumultuous phases, yet the tenacity of patriotic citizens, bolstered by the solidarity of our international allies, has fortified our resolve as a resilient entity.
“On this day, as we mark 64 years of nationhood, we take pride in the enduring establishment of democracy in Nigeria, highlighted by the longest period of democratic governance in our history.
“While democracy has anchored our institutions in the principles of the rule of law, we have yet to achieve satisfactory progress in fostering political inclusivity and ensuring elections that are genuinely free and fair.
“Our founding fathers united under a common cause, championing our independence through peaceful, political activism. What we celebrate today is the fruition of their collective endeavors and those of subsequent generations.
“Our political milieu has become corrosive; opposition parties languish in weakness, while the ruling party appears to manipulate internal processes to render them ineffectual. Nigeria teeters on the brink of a one-party dictatorship, and it is incumbent upon all politicians and statesmen of integrity to rise and reclaim our democracy from the encroaching shadows of oppression.”
However, he appealed to political leaders across all party lines to forge a formidable coalition, one that would provide Nigerians with a credible opposition capable of steering the nation towards a promising future.