As Nigeria clocks 64 today, the Resource Centre for Human Rights & Civic Education (CHRICED) has extolled the doggedness and long-suffering of the ordinary citizens that has guaranteed the country’s continued existence.
The group believes the ordinary Nigerian has paid and continues to pay the supreme sacrifice of death and suffering caused by the nation’s dysfunctional and visionless leadership since the advent of the current democratic regime in 1999.
Speaking on the 64th Independence Anniversary of Nigeria, the Executive Director of CHRICED, Comrade Ibrahim M. Zikirullahi, regretted that what should typically be a moment of pride and festivity, is instead clouded by yet another hunger crisis and a sense of mourning.
He lamented that rather than experiencing vibrant streets and celebratory gatherings, Nigerians are faced with the harsh realities of bad governance, corruption, embezzlement, unemployment, widespread poverty, insecurity, and electoral misconduct.
In his opinion, after more than sixty years of self-rule, the average Nigerian still grapples with basic survival and making ends meet.
Zikirullahi blamed Nigerian politicians for making the vision of a prosperous, thriving, and secure Nigeria a distant aspiration through ineffective leadership, rampant impunity, misappropriation of public funds, and widespread corruption.
According to him, while the Nigerian populace remains entrenched in severe poverty, with millions of children out of school, a high unemployment rate, deteriorating infrastructure, and soaring living costs, the politicians continue to act as if all is well.
“The integrity of our nation has been gravely undermined by politicians who prioritize their personal interests over the welfare of the populace, perpetuating a culture of corruption that has permeated every sector, from electoral systems to the judiciary.
“Rather than serving as a beacon of hope, elections in Nigeria have transformed into fierce contests for power, leaving citizens disillusioned and disheartened by the democratic process.
“This decline in trust jeopardizes our collective potential and highlights the urgent need for measures to restore integrity and accountability in governance,” he said.
Insisting that there is no reason to celebrate Nigeria at 64, the CHRICED boss however said Independence Day as a significant milestone in the nation’s history, should be used for reflection, accountability, and determination.
He said the day should be a call to action, urging Nigerians to hold their leaders accountable for their promises and to demand tangible changes that will improve the lives of ordinary citizens.
He said; “It is a time to reflect on the sacrifices made by those who fought for our freedom and to honor their legacy by striving for a nation where every individual can thrive. We must channel our collective determination into creating a future where the joy of independence is felt by all, not just a privileged few.
“As we observe the celebrations in government circles, let us not forget the voices of the marginalized and the struggles of the many. Let us use this day to reaffirm our commitment to building a Nigeria that is truly free and equitable, where every citizen can partake in the fruits of independence and live with dignity and hope.”
