By; KATO P. LADAN, Kaduna
The National Chairman of Action Alliance (AA), Hon. (Dr.) Rufai Omoaje Adekunle has said that although today, the country is basking in the euphoria of a peaceful transfer of power from successive democratically elected governments, it is not yet out of the woods.
He expressed this in his message to Nigerians on the 31st anniversary celebration of June, 12 anniversary.
According to him, the 12th of June 1993 signifies when Nigerians had the very first truly democratic election in the history of its nationhood.
The election according to him which saw Chief MKO Abiola emerging as the winner (but never announced) was very unique, in that it respected the spirit of true democracy, saying it was an election that was neither ethnic nor religious inclined.
Omo-Aje added that, “it was also an election that didn’t give biased consideration to sectionalism, but gave consideration only to competence and acceptability of the best of our men as presented by the two political parties of the time.
“That was the best display of nationhood maturity displayed by our country Nigeria.”
The AA National Chairman therefore, stressed that as the country commemorates the 31st anniversary of the epoch election, Nigerians must think deeply about things that had held them back ever since that election as a country, and map out the way forward.
The AA Chairman opined that although today, the country is basking in the euphoria of a peaceful transfer of power from successive democratically elected governments, it is not yet out of the woods.
The government and indeed all Nigerians must ensure that the failed promises of June 12, such as abrogation of poverty, equity, and justice are actualized.
“Economic prosperity, security, goodwill, and a sense of unity that are some of the hallmarks of the June 12 struggles should be seen as the building blocks of a true and enduring democracy.
“As the current administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is about to take off in full force; June 12 should continue to be the reference point. This should be reflected in appointments, putting aside ethnicity, religion, regionalism, or party affiliations.
“This should also cut across all the arms of government; The Executive, the Legislature, and the Judiciary.
“Indeed, June 12 should serve as a continuous reminder to Nigerians on the imperative of pursuing the cause of justice in all spheres of life as a necessary condition for peace, and progress.” He said.
Omo-Aje particularly thankef members of the Action Alliance across the country for their resilience through the period.
“We were also struggling to ensure that the tenets of internal party democracy prevails in our party as well, as we battle the criminal incursion of external aggressors, and meddlesome interlopers.
“Our party Action Alliance is finally exiting the moment of deterrent and stagnation to a new era of total livelihood as an independent national political party. As we transit closely to the stardom of rejoicing and rolling out the drums in celebration, we still covet your continuous loyalty in sincerity, perseverance, and commitment to making the party better, and stronger at our respective levels of leadership.
“The journey truly has been long, but we assure you all that the terminus is just at arm’s length at the moment. The doggedness of the national leadership of our party under my able self presiding, coupled with those of other leaders at the various levels capped with the grace of the Almighty God of justice, has led us thus far. In no distant future from where we are right now God willing, we will sing out that the battle is over.
“We appreciate you all, and wish us all a peaceful and fulfilling celebration of our democratic experiment.”
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