Bello acknowledged the fragility of the country’s nascent democracy and expressed the need for the leaders to preoccupy themselves with how to make it survive and use it to better the lives of the people.
According to him, it is time for the country’s leadership to depart from the usual rhetoric and seek pragmatic solution to the challenges of governance in order not to undermine and endanger the hard-earned democracy.
“There is the need to reinvent the wheel of governance that will drive the country to the promised land. We must concentrate on discussing solutions to the problems threatening the corporate existence of our country,” the Governor stated.
Bello called on Nigerians in general, and Nigerlites in particular, to collectively work for the sustenance of democracy stressing that it remains the best system of governance despite its challenges or shortcomings.
While congratulating the citizens for the seamless transition of democratic government from one administration to another, the Governor reminded the people of their individual commitment in building a just and egalitarian society of our dream.
He paid glowing tribute to all those patriotic Nigerians who made sacrifices so that Nigerians can celebrate this day adding that, in spite of the challenges been faced as a nation, the country must remain resolute to keep the dreams of its founding fathers alive.
The Governor further urged all citizens to look into the future with renewed hope and support the present APC-led administration in its efforts at ensuring a secured, united and prosperous state in particular and nation at large.
The day, which was previously observed on May 29, is now celebrated on June 12 each year in commemoration of the annulled general elections of June 12, 1993 and is set aside as a national public holiday in Nigeria.