Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has urged Nigerians to strengthen the country’s democracy through shared values that promote peace, unity, tolerance and responsible citizenship, stressing that democratic governance should go beyond elections and electioneering.
Abiodun made the call in his remarks at a special Jumat service held at the Central Mosque, Kobiti, Abeokuta, to mark the 66th National Day celebration of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. He was represented at the event by his Deputy, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele.
The governor said the approaching election year required Nigerians to compete without hatred, disagree without violence and pursue their aspirations without undermining the peace and stability of their communities.
According to him, the Jumat service provided an opportunity for thanksgiving, reflection and prayers for the continued peace, progress and prosperity of Nigeria, 66 years after independence.
He expressed gratitude to Almighty Allah for preserving the nation through the challenges of its national journey, while acknowledging the efforts of the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to strengthen the economy, improve infrastructure, enhance national security and expand opportunities through the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Abiodun appealed to Nigerians to exercise patience and make necessary sacrifices as the Federal Government implements its reforms, expressing hope that the measures would ultimately translate into improved living conditions and greater opportunities for citizens.
In Ogun State, the governor said his administration remained committed to building a safer, more prosperous and competitive state, adding that the government would continue to strengthen livelihoods, empower women, support vulnerable citizens and create opportunities for residents to live with dignity.
He also called on religious leaders to continue using their pulpits to promote peace, tolerance, honesty, compassion and responsible citizenship, stressing that the strength of any society is also measured by the quality of its values.
Also speaking, the Senator representing Ogun Central, Salis Afolabi Salisu, urged Nigerians to support governments at all levels, particularly when some policies and programmes appear difficult or harsh.
Salisu said such measures were being introduced for the development and betterment of the country, while commending the service chiefs and members of the security forces for their sacrifices toward protecting lives and property.
Earlier, the Ogun State Head of Service, Mr. Iskeel Olanrewaju Saka, described the 66th National Day celebration as historic, noting that it marked the final Independence Day celebration under the administration of Governor Abiodun.
He prayed that Almighty Allah would continue to uphold and prosper Ogun State and Nigeria.
In his sermon, Sheikh Abdullah Belgore urged leaders at the federal, state and local government levels to govern with truth, love and fairness.
He said the Federal Government should govern the states truthfully, state governments should extend the same principles to local governments, while local governments should govern their communities with love and sincerity.
Belgore added that those entrusted with leadership positions should demonstrate good leadership by showing love for the people, particularly through their policies and programmes.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the Ogun State Council of Obas and the Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, represented by the Onijale ti Ijale Paapa, Oba Ajibola Babalola, congratulated the state and Federal governments on the 66th Independence anniversary.
He described the 66 years of independence as a significant milestone and prayed for God’s continued protection over Nigerians and guidance for the country’s leaders.
The event featured recitation from the Holy Quran and prayers for Governor Abiodun, Ogun State and Nigeria.
