June 12: Governance Remains Bedrock Of Democracy – CAN

As Nigeria marks its Democracy Day, the Christian Association of Nigeria has called for urgent reforms and a renewed national commitment to peace, justice, and unity.

It said good governance remains the bedrock of any thriving democratic system.

CAN, in a statement by its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, on Wednesday, paid tribute to the legacy of June 12, describing it as “a day that symbolises our collective commitment to democracy, freedom, and justice.”

The Christian body identified religious intolerance and insecurity as major threats to national stability and democratic development, noting the continued scourge of insurgency, banditry, and kidnappings, warning that such threats must be urgently addressed to preserve Nigeria’s unity and future.

“On behalf of the Christian Association of Nigeria, I extend heartfelt greetings to all Nigerians as we commemorate June 12, a day that symbolises our collective commitment to democracy, freedom, and justice. The legacy of the 1993 elections remains a beacon of hope and a reminder of our nation’s enduring democratic spirit,” the statement read in parts.

Okoh, while reflecting on the legacy of the 1993 presidential elections, described it as a beacon of hope and a demonstration that credible elections are achievable when there is genuine political will.

“As we reflect on this journey, we urge all Nigerians to embrace unity, peace, and mutual respect. We must stand firm against religious intolerance and violence in all forms. The government has a sacred duty to protect religious freedoms, ensure that no one is persecuted for their faith, and deliver justice to victims of religious violence.

“Insecurity, including insurgency, banditry, and kidnapping, continues to threaten our nation’s stability. We call for urgent and sustained action to safeguard lives and property across the country. Good governance is the cornerstone of any democracy. We call for greater transparency and accountability at all levels of government.

“Nigeria’s vast resources must be harnessed to address poverty, unemployment, and inequality, and to improve infrastructure, healthcare, and education. Free, fair, and credible elections are vital to sustaining democratic integrity,” the statement added.

The apex Christian body further reiterated the importance of free, fair, and credible elections, urging the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), to improve its system and restore public confidence in the electoral process.

“We urge INEC to strengthen its systems to enhance transparency and public trust. In a true democracy, the rights to free speech, peaceful assembly, and press freedom must be upheld,” CAN said.

CAN, however, acknowledged the efforts of the government, security agencies and patriotic citizens in defending democratic ideals despite persistent challenges. It also offered prayers for peace, unity, and national progress, and called on Nigerians to remain committed to building a just, inclusive, and prosperous nation that reflects the dreams and sacrifices of Nigeria’s democratic heroes.

“As we mark this significant day, CAN prays for the peace, unity, and progress of our beloved country. We call on all Nigerians to remain committed to building a just, inclusive, and prosperous nation; one that honours the sacrifices of our democratic heroes.”

The CAN president also condemned all forms of religious intolerance and extremism, and reminded the government of its sacred duty to protect freedom of belief.

“We must stand firm against religious intolerance and violence. The government must ensure that no one is persecuted for their faith and that justice is served for all victims of religious violence,” Okoh said.

June 12: Governance Remains Bedrock Of Democracy – CAN is first published on The Whistler Newspaper