ABIA STATE RESIDENTS EXPRESS DIVERGENT VIEWS ON CHOICE OF JUNE 12 AS DEMOCRACY DAY

As Nigeria marks its second Democracy Day celebration on June 12, the new day for the celebration as declared by present Federal Government, some members of the public and stakeholders in Abia State are divided in their feelings about the new day.

While some are happy about the choice of June 12 as Democracy day, others say it does not reflect the true message or significance of the day.

One of them, the former Commissioner for Information in Abia State, Chief Bonny Iwuoha was of the view that the country should celebrate the liberation from military rule on Democracy Day and not annulment of an election.

He commended the efforts of President Muhammadu Buhari’s led administration in the past five years but called for more provision of democracy dividend to the people.

Chief Iwuoha also urged Nigerians to rise up to the responsibility of assisting the Government to build a safe country they would be proud of.

However, another respondent, Mr Hyacinth Okoli said he was happy about June Twelve as Democracy Day describing it as significant and representation of justice.

Mr Okoli maintained that it was the right time for Nigerians to begin to eschew all forms of marginalisation and embrace equitable distribution of power for the nation to move forward.

Also speaking a resident, Mr Ogechukwu Uwanamodo said he did not support the idea of changing the day but saw the need for Government to appease the South West.

The respondents prayed for a united Nigeria where justice, equity and peace would reign and patriotism among the people restored.

IFEAKANWA UDEOZO