A CIVIL society campaign committee for the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship election in Osun has said democracy must go beyond the conduct of elections to deliver accountability, inclusiveness, economic development and improved welfare for citizens.
The committee’s Secretary, Adeola Olayiwola, stated this on Wednesday in Osogbo while unveiling activities to commemorate the 33rd anniversary of June 12.
Olayiwola said the theme of the anniversary, “Democracy and the Ideals of Progressive Governance,” reflects the belief that democracy should not be limited to periodic elections but measured by its impact on citizens through transparent leadership, effective policies and people-centred governance.
“Democracy must go beyond periodic elections and translate into policies, accountability, inclusiveness, economic development and the welfare of the people,” he said.
He noted that the June 12 anniversary provides an opportunity to reflect on Nigeria’s democratic journey, assess progress made since the return to democratic rule and explore ways to strengthen democratic institutions.
Olayiwola described the June 12, 1993 presidential election as a defining moment in Nigeria’s history, noting that it demonstrated the collective desire of Nigerians across ethnic, religious and regional lines to choose their leaders through a transparent and peaceful process.
He urged political leaders, government institutions and citizens to uphold the values of accountability, justice and transparency, and to build a Nigeria where elections reflect the genuine will of the people, public trust in democratic processes continues to grow, and leadership is driven by service, integrity and national interest.
Olayiwola also announced that activities marking the anniversary would commence with a Democracy Day Walk from Nelson Mandela Freedom Park through MDS, Orita Olaiya, Oke-Fia and Lameco, and end at the Aurora Conference Centre for an anniversary lecture on Friday.
Also speaking, a chieftain of the party, Kehinde Ayantunji, called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies and other stakeholders to ensure free, fair and credible elections in the country.
Ayantunji said democracy can only thrive when political disputes are resolved through lawful means. (NAN)
