June 12: Former President Jonathan reflects on Nigeria’s 25 Years of Democracy

Nigeria Former President, Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, has reflected back on the past 25 years of uninterrupted democracy in Nigeria and that it marked a significant milestone despite facing challenges.

He stated that previous democratic periods were cut short by military interventions, but the restoration of democracy in 1999 marked a new beginning.

According to him, Nigeria has seen economic growth, infrastructural development, advancements in arts and sports, and peaceful political transitions in the past 25 years.

Jonathan made these remarks while speaking as the Chairman of the Democracy Day Public Lecture with the theme:

“25 Years of Enduring Democracy: Prospect for the Future” at the Old Banquet Hall, Presidential Villa, Abuja, on Tuesday, June 11.

He partly said: “Twenty-five years ago on May 29, 1999, the Fourth Republic was birthed, and our nation embarked on a historic journey that would forever shape our country’s future.

“Against all odds, we emerged from the shadows of military rule and ushered in a new era of democratic governance. This achievement is a testament to the resilience, courage and unwavering determination of the Nigerian people.

“Considering our political history as a country, 25 years of unbroken democracy is a milestone worthy of celebration. As it shows, we are making some progress in democratic governance despite the challenges we face in our journey of nationhood.
Notably, the path towards democratic consolidation has been a difficult one.

“The First, Second and Third Republics of our democratic experiment were abruptly ended by the military, amid political crises and social tensions.

“After the G18 letter, on May 8th 1998, members of the G-34 in a letter signed by Dr. Alex Ekwueme, the former Vice President, had also urged Gen. Abacha to reject his adoption as presidential candidate and quit power.

“The return of democracy in 1999, after many years of military reign, signaled a new phase in our national journey and our shared vision of unity, peace and progress.

“In the last twenty-five years, we have made modest progress in this regard amid some challenges. As a nation, we built an economy that was once the biggest in the African continent, experienced significant infrastructural growth, made strides in the arts and sports, and recorded many peaceful political transitions at the national and sub-national levels.

“Democracy has also brought about improved access to governance, amplified silent voices and reinforced the idea of sovereignty.
Whenever I tune in to Nigerian TV stations, especially in the morning and see young men and women discussing and interrogating contemporary political issues and holding leaders to account, I thank God for democracy and appreciate the gains we have made over the years.

“Today, citizens have come to terms with the idea of representative governance, as they have over the years expressed their power to choose their leaders and demand accountable leadership and good governance.” [CONTINUE READING HERE]>>>>