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Today, Nigeria marks its 64th Independence Day anniversary, a milestone that should ideally be celebrated with pomp and pageantry. However, the mood across the country is tempered by the harsh realities of poverty, insurgency, corruption, and poor infrastructure.
National Chairman of the Labour Party, Barrister Julius Abure, in his speech to commemorate the independence painted a grim picture of the nation’s current state. He said that Nigeria is undergoing a serious time of attack from politicians who have ganged up against democracy, the people, and the state to plunder the nation.
Abure emphasized the need for Nigerians to unite against these challenges, stressing that the Labour Party remains committed to free and fair elections and good governance.
He said the time has come for Nigerians to join hands and fight against election malpractices, poverty, insurgency, and corruption. “We must reclaim our nation from those who have hijacked it for their selfish interests.”
Abure said the country’s struggles are multifaceted:
– Poverty and Insurgency: The Banditry and insurgency have devastated the northeastern region, displacing millions and claiming thousands of lives.
– Bad Roads and Poor Hospitals: Nigeria’s infrastructure remains in shambles, hindering economic development and access to basic services.
– Expensive Education and Transportation: The cost of education and transportation has skyrocketed, making it difficult for ordinary Nigerians to access these essential services. Corruption and impunity have become entrenched in the nation’s governance structure.
– Poor Judiciary System and Corrupt Electioneering Processes: The judiciary’s integrity has been compromised over time, undermining trust in the electoral process.
Since Nigeria gained independence from British rule on October 1, 1960, the nation has made significant progress since then, but the current challenges are threatening to undermine its development.
Barrister Abure urged Nigerians to unite against the nation’s challenges, saying, “When we join hands as a people to fight these matters, Nigeria will be ready for true democracy, thereby ushering in good governance and quality leadership.”
He noted that President Bola Tinubu, in his Independence Day address this morning, acknowledged the challenges facing the nation and pledged to address them. Julius Abure believes that the many challenges of Nigeria can be solvedby finding solutions through a multifaceted approaches such as:
– Improved Governance: Strengthen institutions and ensure accountability.
– Economic Diversification: Reduce dependence on oil exports.
– Investment in Infrastructure: Upgrade roads, hospitals, and schools.
– Anti-Corruption Drive: Prosecute corrupt officials and recover stolen funds.
As Nigeria celebrates its 64th Independence Day anniversary, it’s clear that the nation has a long way to go to achieve true democracy and good governance. However, with unity and determination, Nigerians can overcome the current challenges and build a brighter future.
SIGN
Bar. Julius Abure
National Chairman
Labour Party
1-10-2024
