As Nigeria marked the June 12 Democracy Day, the Secretariat Membership Club (SMC) has called on politicians and stakeholders to embrace the core qualities of true democracy, such as participation, accountability, unity in diversity, and shared responsibility, to ensure Nigerians enjoy the benefits of democratic governance.
Recommendations for Democracy
The call was contained in a statement issued by the SMC General Secretary, Emmanuel Adesuyi, following a session organized by the club last Friday to commemorate Democracy Day. The club's President, Ayodeji Randle, congratulated Nigerians on the celebration and identified four factors that could make Nigeria's democracy viable.
Participation
Randle emphasized that democracy means every citizen has a voice. He noted that the club set aside time for open discussion, highlighting that all citizens are equal in a democracy.
Accountability
He stressed that just as the club addresses all questions and concerns raised by members, governments at all levels should respond to issues brought forward by citizens.
Unity in Diversity
Randle stated that despite coming from different backgrounds, tribes, and opinions, democracy teaches people to disagree without disintegrating. He said strength lies in mutual respect while building a unified club and nation.
Shared Responsibility
He explained that shared responsibility involves civic duties such as voting, donating, volunteering, and paying dues or taxes. When citizens are free to speak, leaders listen, and everyone takes responsibility, Nigeria will grow stronger, fairer, and more welcoming for both citizens and foreigners.
Club's Perspective
In his remarks, Adesuyi noted that although the club had been marking the day, Randle had elevated the celebration to reinforce SMC's status as a legacy club. He said members belong to different political parties but gathered to celebrate June 12 because it symbolizes freedom for all, regardless of political affiliations.
Adesuyi acknowledged that members hold individual and collective views on various issues, but most believe President Bola Tinubu is on the right track in addressing certain long-standing problems. However, he urged the President to do more to decisively tackle insecurity by engaging local security architecture.
