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25 years of democracy: Senator Lawan says it’s time to reflect on the arduous journey.
25 years of democracy: Senator Lawan says it’s time to reflect on the arduous journey.
By: Yahaya Wakili
Senator Ahmed Ibrahim Lawan, Ph.D., GCON, President of the Ninth Senate, has said, As we gather to commemorate Democracy Day, let us reflect on the arduous journey that has brought us to this moment. Twenty-five years ago, after decades of military rule, Nigeria embarked on a courageous path towards democratic governance.
In a statement issued and signed by him to commemorate Democracy Day, it was made available to newsmen in Damaturu. The President of the 9th Senate said, “It was a path fraught with challenges, but one that we, as a nation, resolutely embraced.
Senator Ahmed Lawan revealed that over these two decades, we have witnessed both triumphs and setbacks. We have encountered steep political landscapes, overcome economic headwinds, and faced down security threats that sought to undermine our collective aspirations for a just and prosperous society. Yet, through it all, the indomitable spirit of Nigerians has prevailed.
He pointed out that, today, we stand at a critical juncture in our democratic evolution. We are confronted with challenges that demand our resolve and unity of purpose. Amidst prevailing economic uncertainty and lingering security concerns, it is easy to succumb to despair. But despair is not in our DNA. We are Nigerians, a people imbued with resilience, ingenuity, and an unyielding belief in our collective destiny.
“The economic challenges we face today are not insurmountable. They are an opportunity for us to re-examine our priorities, diversify our economy, and unlock the vast potential that lies within our borders. By harnessing the power of innovation, entrepreneurship, and international collaboration, we can create a future where economic prosperity is shared by all Nigerians.
According to him, the security threats that plague our nation are a test of our collective, and we must stand together, irrespective of our ethnic, religious, or political affiliations, to confront these threats head-on. By investing in our security forces, fostering inter-agency cooperation, and addressing the root causes of security, we can build a nation where peace and tranquility reign supreme.
“But our journey towards a brighter future is not solely dependent on economic growth and security. It is equally contingent upon the preservation of our democratic values. Democracy is not merely a form of government; it is a way of life. It is a system that enshrines the rule of law, protects fundamental human rights, and guarantees the peaceful transfer of power.
As we celebrate Democracy Day, let us recommit ourselves to the principles that underpin our democratic society. Let us uphold the rule of law, respect the rights of others, and engage in constructive dialogue that seeks to build bridges rather than divide. Let us reject all forms of hate speech, intolerance, and violence and work together to create a truly inclusive and equitable society.
He said that the task before us is not easy, but it is a task that we must undertake with determination. The future of Nigeria lies in our hands. Let us embrace the challenges we face with courage and optimism. Let us work together, as one people, to build a nation that is prosperous, secure, and democratic.
“As we mark this Democracy Day, let us honor the sacrifices of our heroes past by building Nigeria that is worthy of their legacies” he said.
25 years of democracy: Senator Lawan says it’s time to reflect on the arduous journey
NHRC trains 34 human rights advocates in Gombe
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has trained 34 Community Protection Rights Advocates to protect and promote human rights in Gombe state.
Dr Joseph Wanshe, the State Coordinator of the Commission, made the disclosure in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Gombe on Monday.
Wanshe said that the training was imperative toward achieving the mandate of the commission in the state.
According to him, the trained advocates, who are mostly in rural areas, will penetrate distant and rural communities where human rights violations are rampant.
He said that the training has started yielding the expected results as there have been increased number of reported cases of human rights violations from rural communities across the state.
He said that the advocates have been deployed to the 11 local government areas of the state.
“We are witnessing an upsurge in human rights reporting coming to the office.
“ The numbers are increasing as regards civil and political rights followed by cases of women and children, domestic violence, economic, social and cultural rights.
“ There are many factors involved in the upsurge as the NHRC within the last one month has stepped up sensitisations and stakeholders’ engagements.
“ We have trained Community Protection Rights advocates, who have been working and as a result, awareness has increased and number of complaints received have spiked,” he said.
Wanshe said that the trained advocates have been affiliated to NHRC at the local government levels toward ensuring wider coverage of the state in terms of human rights protection.
He assured residents on the commission’s effort at ensuring that it achieved effectively its mandate of protection and promotion of human rights.
Wanshe commended the people of Gombe State for their improved confidence in NHRC which has resulted in improved reportage of human rights violations
He further urged communities to support the advocates in their domains in the overall interest of human rights protection.
NHRC trains 34 human rights advocates in Gombe
Troops intercept 11 suspects with IED-making materials in Abuja
Troops of the Nigerian Army have intercepted 11 suspected criminals conveying materials believed to be for the production of improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in Kuje Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory.
By: Zagazola Makama
Security sources said the suspects, comprising 10 males and one female, were arrested at about 12:59 a.m. on April 27 by troops of 176 Guards Battalion deployed at Kuchiyako.
The sources disclosed that the suspects were intercepted in a vehicle along the Kuchiyako–Tipper Garage road, allegedly loaded with IED-making materials.
According to preliminary investigation, the suspects claimed they were en route to mining sites around Kabbin Mangoro in Kuje Area Council to collect mineral resources.
Items recovered from them include explosive charges and three-and-a-half bags of unidentified mineral substances, among other sundry materials.
The suspects are currently in military custody, while investigations are ongoing to ascertain their intent and possible links to criminal or terrorist activities.
Troops intercept 11 suspects with IED-making materials in Abuja
Troops repel terrorists in Zamfara, recover calm after attack on Godel community
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of the Nigerian Army under 1 Brigade have repelled an attack by suspected terrorists in Godel community of Birnin Magaji Local Government Area of Zamfara State.
Security sources said the incident occurred at about 2:08 p.m. on April 27 when troops deployed at Forward Operating Base (FOB) Kaura Namoda responded to credible intelligence on terrorist activities in the area.
The sources disclosed that troops made contact with the attackers upon arrival, leading to a fierce exchange of fire.
According to the sources, the troops forced the terrorists to withdraw from the area following the encounter.
However, during the attack, the assailants reportedly rustled an unspecified number of cattle belonging to residents of the community.
Three civilians were also said to have sustained gunshot wounds and were evacuated for medical attention.
The sources added that troops have intensified patrols and clearance operations in the general area to prevent further attacks and recover the rustled livestock.
Troops repel terrorists in Zamfara, recover calm after attack on Godel community
NHRC trains 34 human rights advocates in Gombe
Troops intercept 11 suspects with IED-making materials in Abuja
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