Democracy Day: Cleric calls for reflection, accountability, learning from history
Democracy Day: Cleric calls for reflection, accountability, learning from history
A Cleric, Rev Fr. Vincent Chukwujekwu, has called for reflection and collective responsibility in shaping the future of the nation, as the country observes Democracy Day.
Chukwujekwu, who is the Priest-in-Charge, St Anthony Catholic Church, Alagbado, made the call in his sermon on Thursday during the midday Mass.
The Voice Media Trust (VMT NEWS) reports that the Federal Government had changed observance of the democracy day from May 29 to June 12.
This is to commemorate what has been widely acclaimed as the most free and fair democratic election in Nigeria, held on June 12, 1993.
He urged citizens to seize the moment for deep reflection on the nation’s democratic journey.
Chukwujekwu said that lack of emphasis on History education in schools had contributed to the lack of understanding about the country’s past and its impact on the present.
He said that critical events that shaped the nation, such as the immediate pre-amalgamation period and the Nigerian Civil War were often overlooked.
According to him, young Nigerians are increasingly disengaged from national affairs, prioritising entertainment and privileges over the country’s well-being.
“He who fails to learn from history will become history himself.
“It is time for Nigerians to be cautious, reflect on the past, and let any anger stemming from historical injustices fuel positive change.
“It is left for you and I to answer; I urge Nigerians to honestly assess their individual and collective roles in perpetuating societal ills,’’ he said.
Chukwujekwu said that accountability must begin at the individual level, and we as citizens must be willing to admit mistakes and apologise, rather than resorting to defense and justification.
He cautioned against the pervasive desire for corruption, saying that many who decry it might act similarly, if given the opportunity.
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While acknowledging the current challenges, including tribal and religious divisions, the cleric called for continued prayers and active participation in nation-building.
“What is good is good. Whether he or she is not from your tribe that person is good; if he or she has the right quality, then he or she has the right quality.”
“As much as it is scary, it is not time for us to lose hope. We are called to pray, but we are also called to work, because to work is to pray,” he said.
Chukwujekwu acknowledged the justification for the change in democracy day observance in Nigeria from May 29 to June 12 as honouring a “true democracy.”
He, however, expressed worry that the change might inadvertently lead to a future generation forgetting the specific historical context and significance of June 12, 1993, including the controversial annulment of the presidential election.
