The Nigerian Youth Congress (NYC) has urged Nigerians to sustain the democracy, saying that it remains the best form of government.
The NYC’s President, Comrade Blessing Akinlosotu, who made the call while speaking with Journalists in Abuja on Saturday in commemoration of this year’s national democracy day, also tasked them to be civil and law abiding.
He stated that the best form of government still remains the democratic system which is the principle of popular sovereignty, that posits that government can be legitimated only by the will of those whom it governs.
Akinlosotu suggested that democracy goes beyond forming political parties, general elections, and having a civilian government in power.
“Democracy, it should be remembered is not a potted plant which can be transplanted into any soil to grow without work or effort. However, we should know that it is undisputable that sustaining democracy is the function of the citizens. Since the civil society consists of numerous organizations that cover diverse interest and segments of the society, it should become the major defender of democracy.
” It is a process that does not terminate overnight and involves full and effective participation of citizens in determining policies and decisions which affect their lives at all levels and at all times. It involves the responsiveness of the government to the needs and aspirations of the citizens.
“It is based on the ability of a Nation to provide channels for discussions, consultations and mobilizations. This is the level where the role of the people becomes not only critical but also paramount, he noted.
Akinlosotu noted that the challenges are not far from having effective institutional capacity building for conflict prevention, management, resolution, peace-keeping and security which should be adequately put in place to enhance good governance and economic stability in Nigeria.
