The Resource Centre for Human Rights & Civic Education (CHRICED) congratulates the long-suffering people of our country on Nigeria’s 64th Independence Day. For the continued existence of anything left in our country, the credit should always go to the ordinary man, woman, and youth of this country.
The ordinary Nigerian has paid and continues to pay the supreme sacrifice of death and suffering caused by the nation’s dysfunctional and utterly rudderless leadership since the advent of the current democratic regime in 1999.
The unwavering and abiding faith of the ordinary Nigerian is demonstrated by the fact that despite the numerous adversities and hardships that have dominated his or her path and life, the belief in the unity and manifest destiny of the country is still apparent in the interactions of millions of Nigerians of various ethnic nationalities.
The credit for the sacrifices that have resulted in the continued existence of the country must go to the average man and woman in this country.
Celebration or Mourning?
In a few hours, Nigeria will mark 64 years of independence. What should typically be a moment of pride and festivity is instead clouded by yet another hunger crisis and a sense of mourning. Rather than experiencing vibrant streets and celebratory gatherings, we are faced with the harsh realities of entrenched issues such as bad governance, corruption, embezzlement, unemployment, widespread poverty, insecurity, and electoral misconduct, all of which continue to impede our national progress.
After more than sixty years of self-rule, the average Nigerian still grapples with basic survival and making ends meet. Politicians have trivialized the significance of independence, making it seem as though we have yet to achieve it.
The aspirations that fueled our journey in 1960 have been diminished by years of ineffective leadership, rampant impunity, misappropriation of public funds, and widespread corruption. The vision of a prosperous, thriving, and secure Nigeria has become a distant aspiration, overshadowed by a grim reality that starkly contrasts with the principles of genuine independence.
Regrettably, while the Nigerian populace remains entrenched in severe poverty, with millions of children out of school, a high unemployment rate, deteriorating infrastructure, and soaring living costs, the unrepentant and shameless politicians continue to act as if all is well.
The integrity of our nation has been gravely undermined by politicians who prioritize their interests over the welfare of the populace, perpetuating a culture of corruption that has permeated every sector, from electoral systems to the judiciary. Rather than serving as a beacon of hope, elections in Nigeria have transformed into fierce contests for power, leaving citizens disillusioned and disheartened by the democratic process.
This decline in trust jeopardizes our collective potential and highlights the urgent need for measures to restore integrity and accountability in governance.
CHRICED observes the jovial atmosphere in government circles as they celebrate, seemingly oblivious to the stark realities faced by the average citizen. The air is filled with laughter, speeches, and festivities, as public officials revel in their “achievements and the progress” they claim to have made.
However, the critical issue that looms large is whether the long-suffering and traumatized citizens of our nation share in this celebration. For many, the day is not one of joy but rather a painful reminder of the struggles they endure daily.
In the face of severe poverty, economic difficulties, and a pervasive sense of insecurity throughout the country, there are no genuine reasons for celebration. The statistics paint a grim picture: rising unemployment rates, inflation that erodes purchasing power, and a healthcare system that is often inaccessible to those who need it most.
The streets are filled with individuals who are grappling with the harsh realities of life, where necessities are a luxury and hope seems like a distant dream. Amidst this backdrop, the celebrations in government circles ring hollow, echoing the empty rhetoric and slogans propagated by those who profit from Nigeria’s unfortunate economic and political plight.
While CHRICED acknowledges Independence Day as a significant milestone in our nation’s history, it is essential that we also use this occasion for reflection, accountability, and determination. This day should not merely be a time for parades and speeches; it should serve as a moment to confront the uncomfortable truths that our society faces.
We must ask ourselves: What does independence truly mean for the millions who struggle to make ends meet? How can we celebrate freedom when so many are still shackled by poverty and despair?
This Independence Day should be a call to action, urging us to hold our leaders accountable for their promises and to demand tangible changes that will improve the lives of ordinary citizens. It is a time to reflect on the sacrifices made by those who fought for our freedom and to honor their legacy by striving for a nation where every individual can thrive.
We must channel our collective determination into creating a future where the joy of independence is felt by all, not just a privileged few.
In conclusion, as we observe the celebrations in government circles, let us not forget the voices of the marginalized and the struggles of the many. Let us use this day to reaffirm our commitment to building a Nigeria that is truly free and equitable, where every citizen can partake in the fruits of independence and live with dignity and hope.
Signed:
Comrade Ibrahim M. Zikirullahi
Executive Director
