By Kolawole Ojebisi
Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna state has called on activists to activate what he described as their “governance observatories” to keep politicians, particularly those in elective positions, on their toes.
This is as the Kaduna State Governor urged politicians who rode to power on their claim to activism to demonstrate exemplary leadership by being accountable to the people on whose mandate they are in office.
Sani maintained that activists’ contributions are essential in the country, stressing that they are expected to hold politicians’ feet to the fire.
The Governor also argued that “the welfare and security of the people must be our top priority. We must avoid actions that will make the people to lose faith in democracy.’’
This is contained in a statement issued by Victor Mathew Bombai, the Senior Special Assistant on Public Affairs to Sani, on Sunday.
According to Bombai, Sani gave this advice at the public presentation and formal book launch written by Hon Abdul Oroh titled, “Demonstration of Craze: Struggles And Transition To Democracy.’’ on Saturday.
He added that the governor was represented by his Principal Private Secretary, Professor Bello Ayuba.
“Anyone who experienced military rule will not toy with democracy. Despite its imperfections, constitutional democracy remains the best system of government.
“Its key principles like participation of citizens, rule of law, equality, transparency, accountability, human rights, political tolerance, multi-party system, and free and elections are critical to the building and sustenance of a diverse and complex nation like Nigeria,’’ Sani was quoted to have said.
‘’Activate your governance observatories. Keep us on our toes. We are servants of the people. Together, let us grow and sustain this democracy,’’ he advised.
According to the governor, the book is “a major contribution to the growing literature on Nigeria’s pro-democracy struggles and the search for a Nigeria of our dreams.’’
Describing Oroh as his long standing comrade and dependable ally in the struggle for fundamental rights and freedoms, the Governor recalled that ‘’we were in the trenches together.
‘’We fought side by side against military authoritarianism. We advocated for the expansion of democratic space and the deepening and consolidation of constitutional democracy,’’ he added.
He further said that the author ‘’made a mark in journalism and later became the Executive Director of Civil Liberties Organization (CLO). In 2003, he made a foray into partisan politics and was elected Member, House of Representatives.’’
On the book, Sani commended Hon. Oroh for giving insights into his formative years, his driving philosophy, and his participation in the battles against military rule.
‘’How do you navigate the slippery world of Nigerian politics with your values and ethics. This is the dilemma some of us continue to face as we strive to leave lasting legacies of selfless service,’’ he added.
