Labour Party’s Lilian Orogbu, a representative of the Awka North/Awka South Constituency in Anambra State, has voiced her concerns over Nigeria’s 25-year democratic journey.
According to Orogbu, a Business Administration professor, the celebration of a quarter-century of uninterrupted democracy brings mixed feelings.
Orogbu argues that the democratic system has not significantly improved the nation’s state of affairs. She asserts that despite 25 years of democracy, Nigerians have yet to experience the benefits of good governance.
The Labour Party leader challenges her fellow lawmakers to ensure that the dividends of democracy reach the people. She points out that the 25 years of continuous democracy have not resulted in consistent food security or improved access to education and healthcare.
“We are marking 25 years of continuous democratic governance, but this celebration evokes mixed emotions in me because all Nigerians are watching us,” she said. “The people we represent are listening. How much of this continuous democracy we are celebrating today has resulted in continuous food security? How has it led to continuous national security? How has it ensured continuous access to education and healthcare?”
Orogbu emphasizes that democracy, which is supposed to be a government of the people, by the people, and for the people, should positively impact the lives of the citizens. “Our people back home are hungry. To be honest with you, Mr Speaker, there is nothing to celebrate. We should be celebrating food security and access to healthcare. We need to do better because democracy has not impacted my people,” she concluded.
