By Lateef Ibrahim, Abuja
Former Inspector General of Police, Sir (Dr) Mike Okiro has harped on the pertinent need to strengthen Nigeria’s democratic institutions, ensure judicial independence, foster economic inclusivity, and eradicate corruption in the nation.
Okiro said this on Thursday at a press conference and National Democracy Day summit organized in Abuja by the
JusticeNOW INTERNATIONAL on the occasion of the commemoration June 12 anniversary, which has been rechristened as Democracy Day in Nigeria.
The former Inspector General of Police, who doubles as the Board Chairman of The JusticeNow International, pointed out that a resilient Nigeria is one where institutions are strong, the rule of law is upheld, and citizens can trust in the systems designed to protect them.
A prosperous Nigeria, Okiro added, is one where economic opportunities abound, poverty is eradicated, and everyone has a fair chance to succeed.
He stressed further that an accountable Nigeria is one where leaders are responsive to the needs of the people, where transparency is paramount, and where corruption has no place.
He pledged that JusticeNow International, where he is the Chairman of its Board of Trustees, will explore ways to leverage on the lessons of June 12 to inspire a new era of civic engagement and national cohesion in the country.
His words, “Today, as we commemorate June 12 – a day that embodies the democratic spirit and the collective will of our people – we are reminded of the sacrifices made and the enduring hope for a nation where justice, equity, and prosperity are not just ideals, but lived realities for every citizen.
“June 12 is more than just a historical date; it is a powerful symbol of our potential, a testament to the fact that when Nigerians unite, transformative change is possible.
“JusticeNOW INTERNATIONAL was founded on the conviction that a truly just and equitable society is the bedrock of sustainable development.
“Our mission is to advocate for judicial reforms, promote human rights, and champion good governance, all of which are indispensable for building the Nigeria we envision.
“The theme of today’s press conference – “June 12 and Beyond” – compels us to look beyond the past and actively engage with the present and future.
“It challenges us to reflect on how far we have come, but more importantly, to identify the steps we must take to build a nation that is truly resilient in the face of challenges, genuinely prosperous for all its citizens, and unequivocally accountable in its leadership.
“We believe that a resilient Nigeria is one where institutions are strong, the rule of law is upheld, and citizens can trust in the systems designed to protect them.
“A prosperous Nigeria is one where economic opportunities abound, poverty is eradicated, and everyone has a fair chance to succeed.
“And an accountable Nigeria is one where leaders are responsive to the needs of the people, where transparency is paramount, and where corruption has no place.
“We will discuss the importance of strengthening our democratic institutions, ensuring judicial independence, fostering economic inclusivity, and eradicating corruption.
“We will explore how we can leverage the lessons of June 12 to inspire a new era of civic engagement and national cohesion.
In his address, the Speaker and International President of JusticeNOW INTERNATIONAL, Comrade Vik-Morrow Okon Ulo explained that his organization, which is a leading pro-good governance and social justice organization, put the programme together to celebrate a man of value, the late Chief M. K.O Abiola and the general democratic struggles of Nigeria.
He explained that JusticeNow International’s campaign is focused on promoting National and African interests and a sense of patriotism crucial for the survival of democracy. “This initiative aims to cultivate a new political consciousness rooted in creative and critical thinking, driving a deeper understanding of societal challenges beyond mere criticism”, he said.
Also speaking at the programme, former Minister of Women Affairs and erstwhile National Woman Leader of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Hajia Maryam Inna Ciroma declared that it is very important for Nigerians to be allowed to freely choose or decide who govern them.
According to her, “Nigeria must be made to be a truly democratic country so that the people will be happy in celebrating democracy day.
“We should really know what we celebrating”, she stressed.
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