Play Active Role in Democracy, Uzodimma Charges Young Nigerians
Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, has passionately appealed to young Nigerians to become active participants in the country’s democratic process, rather than mere spectators. He made this call at a Democracy Day lecture organized in commemoration of June 12 in Abuja on Thursday, emphasizing the importance of youth involvement in shaping Nigeria’s political development and future.
According to Uzodimma, democracy is not just about institutions, but also requires the active engagement of citizens who are willing to vote, ask questions, and hold their leaders accountable.
He stressed that young Nigerians must recognize themselves as stakeholders in the democratic process and take ownership of their rights and responsibilities.
The governor noted that the youth have inherited the rights and freedoms earned by previous generations, particularly during the struggle for democracy in 1993.
However, he emphasized that these rights come with corresponding responsibilities, including the duty to participate actively in the democratic process.
Uzodimma’s message is particularly relevant in the context of Nigeria’s current political landscape, where youth apathy and disengagement are major concerns. Many young Nigerians have become disillusioned with the political system and feel that their voices are not being heard. However, the governor’s call to action emphasizes that change can only come through active participation and engagement.
He encouraged young Nigerians to take an interest in politics, to vote, and to demand accountability from their leaders. Uzodimma also emphasized the importance of political will, noting that it is the driving force behind meaningful change and reform.
The governor’s remarks were made during a lecture that brought together a diverse range of stakeholders, including politicians, civil society leaders, and young people.
The event provided a platform for discussion and reflection on the state of democracy in Nigeria and the role that young people can play in shaping the country’s future.
Uzodimma’s call to action is a timely reminder that democracy is not a spectator sport, but a participatory process that requires the active engagement of all citizens.
By urging young Nigerians to take an active role in democracy, he is emphasizing the importance of intergenerational collaboration and the need for young people to work together with older generations to build a better future for Nigeria.
As Nigeria continues to celebrate its Democracy Day, Uzodimma’s message serves as a reminder that the country’s democratic journey is far from over. There is still much work to be done to consolidate democratic institutions, promote citizen participation, and ensure that the government is accountable to the people.
The governor’s appeal to young Nigerians to become active participants in democracy is a call to action that resonates with the aspirations of many young people in the country. It is a reminder that the future of Nigeria’s democracy is in the hands of its young people, and that they have the power to shape the country’s destiny through their active engagement and participation.