Some Lagos based lawyers?say?Nigeria's?52nd Independence anniversary call for a sober reflection, especially by the elite, on how to ensure sustainable democracy.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the lawyers, who spoke in separate interviews?in Lagos, expressed? optimism on?the survival of the nation’s democracy and democratic institutions.
Mr Femi Falana?said that the important task facing the nation’s political system was how to foster lasting democracy and not “the mere celebration of independence.”
According to him, the quality of life of an average Nigeria is?better off in the past compared to?the present situation.
Falana said that Nigeria’s 52nd Independence anniversary should be used to evolve strategies for redressing the national crisis of under development and the consolidation of democratic principles.
He said that the concern of government as the nation celebrates freedom of the Nigerian people from the colonial masters should be how to ensure quality life for every Nigerian.
“Our leaders must ensure the realisation of the dream of independence, which is to make life more abundant for the citizens.”
Falana said?the routine celebration of Independence Day would be futile, if there were no positive changes reflected in the political system.
Mr Taiwo Taiwo, the Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Lagos branch, said?the nation lacked?true democrats in spite of operating a democratic government.
“We operate a democracy without democrats. Our politicians must sit up to the challenges of ensuring true democracy in the polity.
“As it were, the Nigerian democracy is not so much of a plus, but there is still room for redress; am sure we will get there soon.”?
Taiwo urged Nigerian leaders to internalise the principle ethics of democracy and shun actions that promoted discord and disunity in the nation.
Mr Festus Keyamo?urged the present political leaders to take a cue from their predecessors in the 1990s.
He said that contrary to misinformed opinions, democracy as a system of government, should be progressive.
Keyamo said the anniversary would only be meaningful and infectious to the citizens if it targetted the?overhaul of?the nation’s political, economic and socio-economic milieu.
“A true democracy must begin with making the votes of the masses count in every election.”?
Keyamo said that while the nation was gradually advancing, more was still desired in the political system. (NAN)