Omoyele Sowore has said Nigerians deserve more than ceremonies, speeches and promises as the country marks its 66th Independence Anniversary.
Sowore, in a message marking the anniversary, said the challenges facing Nigeria should not be blamed on ordinary Nigerians, whom he described as hardworking, creative and resilient.
He wrote:
“Nigeria’s problem is not its people. Nigerians are hardworking, creative, resilient, and extraordinarily resourceful.”
He said the country’s resources and potential had not translated into better living conditions for many citizens, arguing that successive governments had failed to address the problems affecting Nigerians.
Sowore said Independence Day should be about more than the usual celebrations, particularly when many citizens continue to struggle with basic needs.
“At 66, Nigerians deserve more than ceremonies, speeches, flags, and further empty promises”, he stated.
He said Nigerians should have access to decent wages, quality education and healthcare, reliable electricity and a safer environment for farmers and young people.
“They deserve a country where workers earn a living wage; where education and healthcare are accessible; where electricity works; where young people can build meaningful lives; where farmers can work without fear; and where no Nigerian is arrested, brutalized, or imprisoned simply for challenging those in power”, he wrote.
Sowore also called for what he described as a more complete form of independence, saying Nigeria’s freedom should extend beyond the end of British colonial rule.
“The task before our generation is not merely to celebrate the independence handed to us in 1960. Our historic duty is to redo it.
“Nigeria must work for everyone, not a privileged few. The struggle for a truly independent Nigeria continues”, Sowore added.
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