John Alechenu, ABUJA

A factional National Chairman of the Labour Party, LP, Comrade Julius Abure, has expressed sadness that Nigeria’s 64th Independence Day anniversary which should have been celebrated with pomp and pageantry has been tempered by the harsh realities of poverty, insurgency, corruption and poor infrastructure.

He said this in his Independence Day message to Nigerians in Abuja, on Tuesday.

Abure said, “Today, Nigeria marks its 64th Independence Day anniversary, a milestone that should ideally be celebrated with pomp and pageantry.

“However, the mood across the country is tempered by the harsh realities of poverty, insurgency, corruption, and poor infrastructure.”

Abure painted a grim picture of the nation’s current state. He said that Nigeria is undergoing a serious time of attack from politicians who have ganged up against democracy, the people, and the state to plunder the nation.

He emphasized the need for Nigerians to unite against these challenges, stressing that the Labour Party remains committed to free and fair elections and good governance.

According to him, the time has come for Nigerians to join hands and fight against election malpractices, poverty, insurgency, and corruption.

Adding, “We must reclaim our nation from those who have hijacked it for their selfish interests.”

Abure reiterated that the country’s struggles are multifaceted: Poverty and Insurgency: “The Banditry and insurgency have devastated the northeastern region, displacing millions and claiming thousands of lives.
“Bad Roads and Poor Hospitals: Nigeria’s infrastructure remains in shambles, hindering economic development and access to basic services.
“Expensive Education and Transportation: The cost of education and transportation has skyrocketed, making it difficult for ordinary Nigerians to access these essential services. Corruption and impunity have become entrenched in the nation’s governance structure.
“Poor Judiciary System and Corrupt Electioneering Processes: The judiciary’s integrity has been compromised over time, undermining trust in the electoral process.”

He declared that since Nigeria gained independence from British rule on October 1, 1960, the nation has made significant progress since then, but the current challenges are threatening to undermine its development.

Barrister Abure urged Nigerians to unite against the nation’s challenges, saying, “When we join hands as a people to fight these matters, Nigeria will be ready for true democracy, thereby ushering in good governance and quality leadership.”

He equally noted that President Bola Tinubu, in his Independence Day address this morning, acknowledged the challenges facing the nation and pledged to address them.

Abure expressed the belief that the many challenges of Nigeria can be solved by finding solutions through a multifaceted approach such as Improved Governance: Strengthen institutions and ensure accountability.
Economic Diversification: Reduce dependence on oil exports. Investment in Infrastructure: Upgrade roads, hospitals, and schools as well as an improved Anti-Corruption Drive which will lead to the prosecution of corrupt officials and recovery of stolen funds.

He expressed the view that as Nigeria celebrates its 64th Independence Day anniversary, it’s clear that the nation has a long way to go to achieve true democracy and good governance. However, with unity and determination, Nigerians can overcome the current challenges and build a brighter future.