As Nigeria marks this year’s Democracy Day, I join millions of Nigerians in celebrating our democratic journey and reflecting on the sacrifices made by our heroes and heroines who fought tirelessly for the freedoms and rights we enjoy today.
Democracy remains the best system of government because it gives the people a voice and the opportunity to determine their collective destiny. While our democratic experience has faced numerous challenges, we must continue to protect and strengthen our institutions, uphold the rule of law, and ensure that the will of the people remains supreme.
I urge members of the political class across party lines not to take this privilege for granted. Democracy thrives only when leaders place the interests of the people above personal ambitions and remain accountable to those who entrusted them with power.
However, as we celebrate, it is impossible to ignore the disturbing level of insecurity across our nation. The continued abduction of innocent citizens, particularly the schoolchildren and teachers from Ogbomoso and other parts of the country, remains a source of great concern. We pray for their safe and speedy return and call on security agencies to intensify efforts to secure every part of Nigeria.
I also wish to appreciate the Governor of Oyo State and Presidential Candidate of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), His Excellency Engr. Seyi Makinde, for his steadfastness, patriotism, and unwavering commitment to the vision of a better Nigeria. At a time when our nation is in need of purposeful leadership, he continues to demonstrate the courage, capacity, and dedication required to move Nigeria forward. The nation is waiting for such leadership, and I am confident that Nigerians will rally around him at this critical moment in our history.
I equally commend our governorship candidate, Hon. Bimbo Adekanmbi, and all candidates of the Allied Peoples Movement for their commitment to the ideals of true democracy, good governance, and people-oriented leadership.
On behalf of the Allied Peoples Movement in Oyo State, I thank all our party members, supporters, and the good people of Oyo State and Nigeria for their faith in democracy and their continued support for nation-building.
As we celebrate Democracy Day, may peace, unity, security, and prosperity reign across our land. May God bless Oyo State and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Otunba Adegbenro Fagbemi
Oyo State Chairman, Allied Peoples Movement (APM)
