Democracy Day: IBB calls for 2 party structure
Former
Military President Ibrahim Babangida has called for a unique two-party
structure in an effort to promote and protect the nation’s democratic
institutions.
Babangida
made this call in a statement signed by himself and made available to the Media
in Minna on Monday to commemorate democracy day.
According to
him, it is high time to build a unique two-party structure in the country at
this critical period of electioneering year.
”Our journey
to nationhood and democracy from 1960 to date has been characterised by
upheavals and turbulences, yet we must cherish our commitment to remain a
united country, in brotherhood and respect for one another.
”We must
also appreciate the strength and value of our diversity, with due understanding
and recognition of the interests of various ethnic nationalities in our
hearts,” he said.
He
reiterated resolve as a Nigerian to the unity and indivisibility of our dear
nation, which our founding fathers struggled to gain from the British colonial
rule.
”As we
celebrate 19 years of democracy in our country, democratic governance has been
polarized along divisive ethnic and religious lines.
”It is
indeed worrisome that active politicians are not adhering to the rule of the
game of politics.
”Our
political parties since May 29, 1999 have no distinct ideologies with internal
squabbles and cross carpeting that is not healthy to our Democracy.
”We must
also appreciate the strength and value of our diversity, with due understanding
and recognition of the interests of various ethnic nationalities in our hearts.
”Nigeria has
had its share of conflicts and political instability, just like many other
nations and states, but we have always survived against all odds,” he said
The former
military president pointed out that in our efforts to promote and protect
democratic institutions, we should not forget the roles and sacrifices of our
gallant armed forces in the history of nation-building.
He said it
would, therefore, be in our own interest to look for solutions to the problems
confronting us as a nation.
Babangida
said, “In whatever circumstance we find ourselves, we must continue to exercise
democratic tenants, which promote freedom and respect of one another.”
While
saluting the resilience of Nigerians in adopting democratic structures across
the three-tiers of government for an uninterrupted period of eighteen years, he
expressed the hope that the general elections next year will further
consolidate democratic governance, freedom and security.
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