From AMEDU JOSEPH, Lokoja
Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State has assured citizens of the state of good governance and more democracy dividends in the years ahead.
The governor in his Democracy Day message said the day remains of paramount significance in the nation’s history as it marks the return of power to the people.
He said his administration will continue to prioritize the welfare and well-being of the citizens since one of the hallmarks of every true democracy is about the government working to meet the yearnings of the people.
Bello said justice, equal treatment and all-inclusive participation which are fundamental building blocks for peace, sustainable development and human rights would continue to be upheld by his administration.
According to the governor, the uninterrupted democracy the nation has enjoyed over the years was a testament of its overwhelming popularity and acceptance, as it has given room for active participation of everyone in the society in choosing their leaders.
He said the government at all levels will continue to extend the democratic dividends to the greatest majority of the people.
The governor used the occasion to thank President Muhammadu Buhari for officially recognising June 12 as the nation’s Democracy Day in honour of the Late M.K.O. Abiola, who paid great price towards the entrenchment and deepening of democracy in the country.
He said as part of efforts towards deepening democracy and giving voice to people at the grassroots, his administration has constituted the Kogi State Independent Electoral Commission (SIEC) to work out modalities for the conduct of free and fair Local Government election in the state.
The governor called on people of the state and Nigerians in general to continue to support the state’s and country’s efforts in deepening democratic values.
He congratulated the people of the state and Nigerians on the occasion of this year’s Democracy Day celebration.
