The African Democratic Congress (ADC), has said after over two decades of uninterrupted democracy and 25 years after the June 12, 1993 Presidential election, it was time Nigerian youths take ownership of our democracy.
National Youth Leader of the party, Chukwuka Odimbu, said this at the party’s one-day National Leadership Conference in Abuja, on Wednesday.
The event was organised as part of activities marking this year’s Democracy Day.
He said, “As Nigerians commemorates this 12th day of June as Democracy Day; it is indeed memorable and eventful period.
“ It is in the history of our existence as people of common pain, nation of consanguinity and a democratic independent entity.
“ADC hereby implores our youths to take ownership of our dear country as it belongs to all of us.
“As youths, we make the chunck of the country’s populations; our numerical strength is unmatchable as we have a vital role to play towards sensitizing the entire populace.
“Our role is simple; preach peace in principle-action and speech, then participate in governance towards purposeful engagement and sustainable development.
“Undoubtedly, 25 years of an uninterrupted civil rule and most lengthy democracy to Nigerians is a long way to call.
“This, indeed, calls for celebration that we could still stand as a people, a nation despite all odds and challenges over the past two (2) decades.
“Notable, Nigeria’s uninterrupted democratic sojourn of over two (2) decades (1999-2024) had been characterized at a stretch with mixed experience, the good and the bad, progress and retrogression, economic boom and upturn, upheavals and giant strides successes and challenges, hopes and successive fulfillments.”
Speaking about the significance of June 12 in the political history of Nigeria, Odimbu said, “June 12th holds a special place in our hearts as it marks a historic turning point.
“ It is a day that symbolizes the resilience of our democratic spirit, a spirit that was unmistakably evident during the 1993 elections.
“These elections, widely regarded as the freest and fairest in our nation’s history, were unfortunately annulled, leading to widespread protests and calls for justice.
“The events of June 12, 1993, became a catalyst for profound political change, eventually ushering in an era of renewed democratic governance.
“Today, as we celebrate Democracy day, we must acknowledge the progress we have made while recognizing that democracy is an ongoing process not a destination.
“It requires constant vigilance, active participation and commitment to the common good. This is where you, the youths come in.”
The party equally said President Bola Ahmed Tinubu owes the country a civic responsibility to protect our young democracy, in words and in deed.
Guest Lecturer at the event, Princess Winifred Ikeogu, in her remarks herped on the need for youths to submit themselves for mentorship by credible leaders.
She said, “Mentorship helps you not to make a mistake because they are following the footprints of their mentors.
“Because you have access to person in high places, don’t become a burden to them. Learn to develop relationship, loyalty and earn the trust of your mentors.”
On the issue of youth engagement in leadership.
Ikeogu said, “Try and vote for your candidate even if it is rigged at the end of the day; try to participate in leadership change.
“Engage in constructive conversations on national issues. Challenge policy not favourable to your constituency. Contribute in decision making process.
“Don’t allow yourself to be a political thug to politicians. Follow current events, understand polices.
“Be a leader with integrity. Have empathy and emotional intelligence. Have a vision, people are looking up to you. Be accountable.
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