Obasa, Fashola urge citizens to protect Nigeria’s democracy at Lagos Assembly event (Photos)
By Innocent Raphael
Key figures in Nigerian politics and international diplomacy have emphasized the importance of safeguarding democracy at an event organized by the Lagos State House of Assembly to commemorate 25 years of unbroken democratic governance in the country.
Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, former Lagos governor, Babatunde Fashola, and several foreign diplomats and business experts highlighted the benefits Nigeria has reaped since the inception of the Fourth Republic in 1999.
Speaking at the event, Dr Obasa highlighted the nation’s democratic journey, pointing to successful power transfers, adherence to representation, accountability, and the rule of law as significant achievements.
“Our democracy has endured despite challenges and setbacks. We must continue to guard it jealously, for it is the foundation upon which the fabric of our nation’s progress is built,” he noted.
He praised the state legislature’s role in promoting good governance, citing impactful laws and reforms in justice, social welfare, and infrastructure that have drawn international attention. Obasa called for continued support for state Houses of Assembly to deepen democratic values and grassroots governance.
In his address, Fashola echoed this sentiment, describing democracy as the best system for Nigeria’s multi-tier governance structure. He recounted key legal battles that fortified the state’s autonomy and urged support for President Tinubu’s administration, expressing optimism about forthcoming reforms.
Foreign diplomats, including French Consul General Laurent Favier and German Consul General Weert Börner, in separate remarks, lauded Nigeria’s democratic resilience. They stressed the necessity of continuously striving for democratic perfection and praised legislative advancements such as the Electricity Act.
Representatives from Italy, the UK, and the US also commended Nigeria’s democratic progress. They reiterated their countries’ commitment to supporting Nigeria’s democratic journey and fostering partnerships to enhance governance and development.
