Independence
By Idris Olukoya
Some stakeholders of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in Lagos State have called for concerted efforts to end poverty, hardship and economic deprivation in the country, saying Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary should mark a renewed commitment to inclusive development.
The stakeholders made the call at a news conference held in Lagos on Thursday, to commemorate Independence Day.
Mrs Tinuola Aina, Deputy Chairman of SDP in the state, said the anniversary should serve as a reminder that independence must translate into improved quality of life, dignity and opportunities for ordinary Nigerians.
Aina urged SDP members and supporters to participate actively in the democratic process and exercise their franchise responsibly, rejecting vote-buying and protecting their votes until properly counted.
“We want our members and Nigerians to understand that their votes are their power. They should reject inducements, vote according to their conscience and ensure that their votes count,” she said.
The chieftain said the SDP’s mission included deepening democracy, promoting good governance and pursuing genuine development rooted in social justice, peace and security, as well as advocating a productive and sustainable economy.
She added that the anniversary should renew collective aspiration for a Nigeria where poverty would be reduced, productive opportunities expanded and citizens empowered to contribute meaningfully to national development.
Mr Oluwamuyiwa Oludotun, secretary of the party in the state, said the party remained committed to a people-oriented political system in which government policies would prioritise welfare and economic empowerment.
Oludotun said that 66 years after independence, Nigeria should be able to record greater progress in human development, infrastructure, productive employment and social welfare, noting that the country’s enormous human and natural resources should translate into better living conditions.
Mr Adegboyega Adeniyi, SDP candidate for Lagos East Senatorial District, urged voters in the constituency to participate actively in the electoral process and make informed choices based on candidates’ programmes, competence, integrity and commitment to public service.
Adeniyi said the electorate should guard their votes against manipulation and inducement.
“We are appealing to our people to come out and vote massively, but they must vote according to their conscience and protect their votes.
“The future of our communities cannot be exchanged for temporary inducements,” he said.
He added that the SDP’s vision was centred on a society where government remained accountable and public resources were deployed for sustainable development.
Mr Femi Falowo, SDP candidate for Amuwo-Odofin Constituency I in the State House of Assembly, said the anniversary provided an opportunity to reflect on the nation’s journey and the need to build communities where citizens could access quality education, healthcare, and basic infrastructure.
Falowo said constituency development required responsive representation and effective engagement between elected representatives and the people, adding that political leadership should be measured by its impact on citizens’ lives.
He called on party members and supporters to remain peaceful, law-abiding and committed to issue-based campaigns, saying elections should provide an opportunity for citizens to choose representatives based on programmes and commitment to development(NAN)
SIO/BHB
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Edited by Buhari Bolaji
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