Democracy has fared well since 1999 — Sokoto Commissioner

SOKOTO — Sokoto State Commissioner for Local Governments and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Ibrahim Dadi Adare, has said Nigeria’s democratic journey since the return to civilian rule in 1999 has demonstrated the resilience of the country’s democratic institutions despite years of military intervention in governance.

Adare, the Dallatun Gobir, stated this in Sokoto while speaking with journalists as part of activities marking Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary.

He described the anniversary as an opportunity for Nigerians to reflect on the country’s journey, sacrifices, achievements and challenges since independence.

“I want to use this opportunity to celebrate with all Nigerians for witnessing the 66th year of Nigeria’s independence. It is, of course, something to rejoice about and to be happy with,” he said.

The commissioner paid tribute to Nigeria’s founding nationalists, including the country’s first Prime Minister, Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa; Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe; Chief Obafemi Awolowo; and Sir Ahmadu Bello, the Sardauna of Sokoto.

He said their sacrifices, patriotism and commitment to nation-building laid the foundation for subsequent generations, adding that their emphasis on national unity remained relevant to the country’s contemporary challenges.

Adare also acknowledged the contributions of successive military administrations to national development and unity but argued that democratic governance provides citizens with greater opportunities for representation and participation.

“Democracy remains the best form of government that is acceptable to all. It is the government of the people, for the people and by the people,” he said.

He added, “When compared with democracy, military administration cannot be compared with it. There is always representation at various levels of governance, and people always want to feel a sense of belonging, particularly when it comes to issues of democracy.”

Nigeria returned to civilian rule in 1999 after decades of military intervention and has since maintained uninterrupted constitutional civilian rule.

Adare said the period had recorded developments in political representation and institutional continuity, while acknowledging the roles of former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo, the late Umaru Musa Yar’Adua and Goodluck Jonathan in the country’s democratic transition and consolidation.

He urged Nigerians to protect democratic institutions through active participation, respect for the rule of law and commitment to peaceful political processes.

2027 elections

Adare also urged Nigerians, particularly residents of Sokoto State, to approach the 2027 general elections with commitment to peace, unity and democratic values.

“I appeal to Nigerians, particularly the people of Sokoto State, to remain peaceful, united and law-abiding. They should participate actively in the electoral process, obtain their Permanent Voter Cards and vote for credible leaders who will sustain development, peace and good governance,” he said.

He appealed to political parties and their supporters to conduct their activities with tolerance and respect for democratic rules, warning against inflammatory rhetoric, violence and intimidation.

“Politicians should play politics with decorum, tolerance and respect for democratic rules. They should shun acts capable of causing disunity or violence,” Adare said.

Sokoto development

On developments in Sokoto State, the commissioner commended Governor Ahmed Aliyu for what he described as interventions under the administration’s nine-point Smart Agenda.

He said the agenda had focused on security, education, healthcare, water supply, infrastructure, agriculture, religious affairs, local government administration and economic empowerment.

Adare also acknowledged the role of APC leader in Sokoto State, Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko, whom he credited with providing political guidance, mentorship and support to the administration.

He called on citizens to use the 66th Independence Anniversary to renew their commitment to national unity, democratic stability and the collective responsibility of building a more prosperous Nigeria.