NIGERIA @64: Comrade Obule Appeals to President Tinubu to Protect the Democracy We Labored For
By Wilson Macaulay
As Nigeria celebrates 64 years of independence, Comrade Francis Obule, (JP)a prominent politician and advocate for democracy, SSA to the Delta State Governor on Political Matters has issued a passionate plea to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, urging him to uphold democratic principles and resist any attempt to undermine the country’s hard-won democracy.
In a statement reflecting on Nigeria’s tumultuous political history, Comrade Francis Obule reminded President Tinubu of the struggles endured by various civil society organizations (CSOs), religious leaders, and labor unions in the fight for democracy, particularly during the military regimes of General Ibrahim Babangida (IBB) and General Sani Abacha.
He stressed that the sacrifices made by countless Nigerians, including those who paid the ultimate price with their lives, should not be in vain.
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Recalling Tinubu’s own exile during the oppressive military era, Obule emphasized how critical it is for the president to remember his roots as a defender of democracy. “We cannot afford to return to the dark days of dictatorship and intimidation,” he said. “President Tinubu must allow the will of the people to prevail, especially as we navigate crucial elections like the just concluded Edo State gubernatorial contest.”
Obule expressed deep concern over the increasing reports of electoral manipulation, forceful tactics, and intimidation being used to secure electoral victories as manifested in the Edo gubernatorial election.. He pointed out that such actions are reminiscent of Nigeria’s troubled past, where power was seized through coercion rather than the ballot box.
Drawing parallels with the 1993 presidential election, famously known as “Hope ’93” under the Option A4 voting system, Obule highlighted the integrity of that election process, which was conducted without the use of force. “In ’93, despite the military’s presence, Nigerians witnessed an election where the will of the people was respected, and results were transparently announced. Today, we face a scenario where results are declared in the dead of night, far from the watchful eyes of the people,” he lamented.
Comrade Obule the Senior Political Aide to the Delta State Governor also spoke on the current state of the nation, emphasizing the economic and social hardships Nigerians are enduring. “Nigerians are suffering from high costs of living, widespread hunger, and crippling economic challenges.
He stressed that Nigerians do not need crisis of democracy, urging President Tinubu to prioritize the people’s well-being over political gains.
As Nigeria marks 64 years of independence, Obule urged President Tinubu to reflect on his legacy. “Mr. President, history will remember you not for the power you wield but for the actions you take in service to this nation. Do what is right for Nigeria, and let the people’s voice be heard.”
Comrade Obule’s powerful message concurred with a growing number of Nigerians who are calling for transparent governance and true adherence to democratic values. As the country moves forward, all eyes are on President Tinubu to steer Nigeria in the right direction, ensuring that the nation’s democracy remains intact for future generations.
In summation Obule compassionately appealed that our nascent
Democracy must be protected and defended by everyone who truly love Nigeria our father land.
