Nigeria is celebrating its independence today, October 1, 2024 just like every other year since the year 1960 it gained independence.
However, a day which is supposed to be a day of joyous celebration by citizens is met with with frustration, anger and protests on the streets fueled with hunger caused by harsh economic conditions.
As a result, 2023 Labour party Presidential candidate, Peter Obi took to his X page to air his views on the present state of the country.
“Anniversary celebrations, whether for an individual or a country, offer opportunities to reflect on memories, celebrate accomplishments, look toward the future, and express gratitude.
“This is exactly what we are doing today as our dear nation marks its 64th independence anniversary.
“It is now 64 years since Nigeria took charge of its destiny and embarked on the journey toward development as a sovereign nation.
“Today is a day to appreciate God for abundantly blessing us with natural, human, and material resources to build a great nation.
“However, for me, this should also be a day of sober reflection for every Nigerian, especially for us, the leaders, whose actions and inactions have contributed to the stagnation and glaring failures we are witnessing at present.
“As the saying goes, an unexamined life is not worth living,” Peter said.
The Dangerous Dance
In addition, he said Nigeria is underperforming by every measure of development, from the critical areas to the smallest aspects.
“We rank poorly in security and peacefulness, making us one of the most insecure nations globally.
Also, we ranked among the most corrupt countries, and we are noted for our disregard for the rule of law.
Our nation continues its dangerous dance on the edge of a precipice.
When we compare ourselves to countries that gained independence around the same time—before or after us—Nigeria stands out as a nation in decline, urgently in need of rescue from further decay.”
Also Read: Independence Day: Full Text Of Speech By President Tinubu
Furthermore, Obi urged Nigerians to make a solemn commitment to build a nation that is truly independent from the state capture that has dragged it into failure and kept its people in suffering.
“We must create a nation free from tribal disunity and religious disharmony.
We must build a New and Productive Nigeria that prioritizes the well-being of its citizens.
That is the independence we should celebrate as a nation whose greatness remains POssible. -PO”
