OPINION: Why May 29th will always remain a momentous date in Nigeria’s history
Editor’s note: May 29th is celebrated annually as democracy day in Nigeria since 1999. The date ushered in the beginning of the current democratic dispensation. Prior to that time, the Military government held sway before General Abdul Sallam Abubakar relinquished power on May 29th, 1999 to the then President Olusegun Obasanjo.
In the article sent to NAIJ.com, a Facebook user, Oluwayemi I. Adebayo explains why May 29th will always remain a momentous date in Nigeria’s history.
With over 170 million people, hundreds of ethnic languages, diversity in culture, gender and philosophy, we keep the faith that unity in diversity is the only way forward.
This historic day redeems our democratic freedom to govern our own selves as the genesis of democracy was not a pandemonium but rather, a blessing to the people. Definitely, the labour of our heroes past shall never be in vain.
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In accordance with Section 14 (1) of the 1999 CFRN (as amended) 'The Federal Republic of Nigeria shall be a state base on the principles of democracy...'
President Muhammadu Buhari
The Nigerian state assumed a distinct administration profile on 29th May, 1999 following the discontinuation of the sixteen (16) years military regime in Nigeria. The military regime was retrieved by a civilian government; as a result, the Fourth Republic was given birth to, connoting the ascension of an elected president in the person of Chief Olusegun Obasanjo whom served previously as the military head of state from 1976 to 1979.
Furthermore, history has it that the civilian administration ensured the principles of democracy, by promoting the fundamental human rights, the fundamental human rights, freedom of the press and most exclusively the sovereignty of the people. In addition to, since the reclamation of democratic rule in Nigeria, there have been four consecutive transmutations of administration.
In the picture, the Olusegun Obasanjo's Administration being the premier, Yar'adua's Administration, consequently, Jonathan's Administration and the present day Muhammadu Buhari's Administration.
Abraham Lincoln conveyed the breviloquent definition of democracy 'the government of the people, by the people and for the people'. Of course, it's an exposition that summarizes a chunk, and conveys the message very exceptionally without reinforcing.
Democracy is about the people from whom the government through the provisions of the constitution derives its powers and authority. In this structure, the active participation of citizens is indispensable, likewise the protection of human rights, equality before the law, free and fair elections, among others.
The pivotal questions we need to ask ourselves as we commemorate the restoration of democracy in Nigeria include: In the first place, has the government been able to put into practice the principles of democracy?. Truly, we certify that no democracy adopted in any nation is faultless. Notwithstanding, the principles coupled with democracy are achievable.
The second question is: as citizens of this great nation, have we been good ambassadors and law abiding citizens? Have we summoned courage to say no to lawlessness? Have you ever pondered on the number of lives lost in scrimmage for liberty and freedom to prevail?
In spite of the fact that as citizens our interests vary, however, the love for one's country is unshaken. We cannot abide to ruminate on the same old issues of this nation knowing full well that solutions to solving the challenges have been provided.
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Solutions such as the recommendations of 2014 National Conference, propagating the seeds of patriotism, transparency, protection of interests of the citizens to name a few.
As a final point, the quest for democracy should elevate and let us never dismiss from mind that government constitutes the citizens. The future lies in your hand.
Watch this NAIJ.com video of Nnamdi Kanu visiting Femi Fani-Kayode in his home: